The Tomato Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria has pointed to increased demand during Sallah celebrations and low production output to explain the recent rise in tomato prices. Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Rabiu Zuntu, Chairman of TOPAN Kaduna State chapter, offered insights into this trend.
Zuntu stated, "The reason for the hike in the price of produce can be closely linked to the increased demand during the festivities and the low production output of farmers. After the festivities, in a week or two, everything will go back to normal; expect the price of tomatoes to normalise then."
Before the celebrations, a rafia basket of tomatoes was priced between $13 and $20 in northern regions. During the festive period, prices escalated to $40 and above. In January, the cost of a similar basket ranged from $26 to $40 in the Southwest, which has since surged to $80 to $94.
Transportation expenses also contribute to cost increases, a factor echoed by Zuntu. "We need to increase productivity to meet the growing demands of this product. The cost of logistics is also a factor in the price hike of the produce," he explained, while noting that prices for peppers continue to rise, as peppers are currently out of season.
The association anticipates a reduction in tomato prices in the coming weeks as demand stabilizes post-festivity.
Source: Punch