The Tomatoes Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (TGPMAN) has allayed fears of a possible hike in tomato and vegetable prices during the upcoming Ramadan fast, assuring Nigerians of stable and possibly lower prices.
The Kaduna State Chairman of the association, Mr Rabiu Zuntu, disclosed this on Monday during an interview in Lagos, attributing the positive outlook to a bumper harvest and favourable planting conditions.
Zuntu explained that unlike previous years when tomato and pepper prices usually surged during Ramadan, this year’s situation would be different due to increased production and the timing of the fasting period.
“Last year’s planting season was challenging for farmers due to high production costs and low market prices, but many farmers have now increased vegetable cultivation,” he said.
According to him, Ramadan falling between February and March — a peak harvest period for tomatoes — is expected to boost supply and reduce prices across major markets.
“The prices of vegetable crops may drop further this Ramadan because many farmers cultivated more produce to meet fasting-season demand. Also, food consumption generally reduces as Muslims skip breakfast and lunch during the fast,” Zuntu explained.
He added that prices are largely determined by demand and supply, noting that higher availability would naturally push costs down.
“Normally, Ramadan begins around April when harvest season is over and supply is low, which causes price hikes. But this year, the fast coincides with peak harvest. This could lead to a further crash in tomato prices, especially in northern states like Kaduna and Kano,” he said.
Zuntu also disclosed that despite challenges posed by the Tuta Absoluta virus, farmers recorded high yields, further strengthening expectations of price stability and affordability for Nigerian households.
