The Kaduna State chapter of the Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria (TOPAN) has identified increased demand during Sallah celebrations and a drop in production levels as causes for the recent rise in tomato prices.
Rabiu Zuntu, Chairman of TOPAN in Kaduna, informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) about the seasonal nature of the price hike, noting its connection to festive activities.
Zuntu stated, "The reason for the hike in the produce can be closely linked to the increased demands during the festivities and the low production output of farmers."
He noted that stable prices were observed before Eid, but consumption-driven increases emerged subsequently. Zuntu explained, "The main reason for the consistent rise in the price of tomatoes in recent times is the high demand for the produce and low productivity level of the farmers."
Transportation costs have also influenced price changes during the celebrations. Zuntu anticipates a return to normal pricing: "After the festivities, in a week or two, everything will go back to normal; expect the price of tomatoes to normalise then."
Source: News Guru