The Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria has predicted an increase in tomato supply ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The Chairman of the association, Mr. Rabiu Zuntu, disclosed this in an interview with reporters on Monday in Lagos.
Zuntu said the price of tomatoes would continue to drop as supply increases toward the festive season.
“Actually, the price of tomato is presently down, and most times it is influenced by the forces of demand and supply. The higher the supply, the lower the price, and vice versa.
“Presently, the volume of supply is increasing and the price has reduced considerably. Up north last week, a 50kg basket of tomatoes sold between N25,000 and N30,000, compared with N40,000 to N60,000 some weeks back.
“Currently, the same quantity sells between N15,000 and N16,000 up north.
“So, with the increased supply of tomatoes, there is going to be enough for Christmas and New Year celebrations,” he said.
He added that more farmers were yet to begin harvesting, which would boost supply even further.
“Looking at the farming situation and the level of maturity or ripeness of tomatoes ready for harvesting, some farm areas have not yet started. As harvesting progresses, the quantity will continue to increase toward the festive season,” Zuntu said.
NAN reports that a 50kg basket of tomatoes currently sells for between N40,000 and N50,000 in Lagos, down from N80,000 to over N100,000 in previous months.
Similarly, a crate of tomatoes now sells for between N15,000 and N18,000.
