Tomato Supply To Surge, Prices Expected To Drop This Festive Season
By TINA TOLUTOPE
TOMATO farmers in Nigeria are projecting an increased supply of the produce ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations, which is expected to push prices lower. The prediction was made by Mr. Rabiu Zuntu, Chairman of the Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria, in an interview on Monday in Lagos.
Zuntu explained that the current decline in prices reflects the balance of supply and demand. In northern markets, a 50kg basket of tomatoes previously sold for ₦40,000–₦60,000 but now costs between ₦15,000 and ₦16,000. In Lagos, the same quantity is selling for ₦40,000–₦50,000, compared with ₦80,000–₦100,000 in prior months. A crate of tomatoes currently goes for ₦15,000–₦18,000.
He added that more farmers are yet to harvest their crops, meaning supply is set to rise further in the coming weeks. “With the increased supply currently, there is going to be enough for Christmas and New Year celebrations,” Zuntu said, noting that tomatoes from unharvested farms will contribute to the festive supply.
The association’s forecast indicates that consumers can expect more affordable tomatoes in the markets during the holiday season, easing the cost of one of Nigeria’s most essential festive ingredients.
