Ghana imports GHS8.1 billion in tomatoes yearly
Ghana’s Chamber of Agribusiness has urged the government to stop importing certain agricultural products, especially tomatoes. The Chamber says Ghana spends GHS8.1 billion on fresh and processed tomatoes each year. This impacts local farmers and job creation. Reducing imports would help local producers grow and create more jobs, supporting Ghana's industrial growth.
The Ghana Chamber of Agribusiness wants the government to stop importing certain farm products. Tomatoes are a key focus. The group believes this will help local farmers and create jobs.
Ghana imports a lot of tomatoes. The Chamber says the country spends about GHS7.2 billion on fresh tomatoes each year. Another GHS900 million is spent on processed tomato products. This totals around GHS8.1 billion per year.
These high import levels hurt local farmers. They also reduce chances for new jobs and business growth in Ghana. The Chamber argues that Ghana relies too much on imported tomatoes. This is not good for the economy over time. It also means fewer jobs for Ghanaians.
Stopping these imports would help Ghana's own farmers and food processing companies. This would support the country’s plans for more industrial activity and a stronger economy.
This issue comes after Burkina Faso recently lifted its ban on tomato exports to Ghana.
Source: StatsGH — Ghana's data-driven news platform