Ghana Not Facing Tomato Shortage Despite Burkina Faso Export Suspension – Chamber of Agribusiness CEO

Anthony Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, has dismissed concerns over a potential tomato shortage in Ghana following Burkina Faso’s recent suspension of fresh tomato exports.

Burkina Faso, a major tomato supplier in the region, halted exports to protect its domestic processing industry. The decision has also caused anxiety among Ghanaian traders, especially after some were caught in a terrorist attack in Titao, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of several women.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express with Evans Mensah, Mr. Morrison emphasized that Ghana is not at risk of a tomato supply deficit. He explained that Ghana has historically contributed to Burkina Faso’s seed breeding programs and maintains strong collaborative ties with the Sahelian country.

“I don’t think there is a challenge… it will interest you to know that actually Burkina Faso’s seed breeding history was from Ghana. They’ve done a lot of collaboration over there,” he said.

On Ghana’s reliance on imported tomatoes, Mr. Morrison shifted focus to changing consumer preferences in Ghana. He noted that perceptions of quality and taste influence tomato demand more than import dependency.

“The thing is about the changing taste of Ghanaian consumers, and what we perceive as quality,” he explained.

When questioned about Burkina Faso tomatoes reportedly being superior in quality, Mr. Morrison declined to comment further.

He maintained that Ghana’s domestic production capacity, particularly during peak periods, is strong enough to meet local demand. “Within the major season, Ghana actually produces more than Burkina Faso in their entire season, both minor and major,” he said, reinforcing the country’s self-sufficiency in tomato supply during key harvesting periods.

Mr. Morrison’s statements aim to reassure traders, consumers, and stakeholders that Ghana’s tomato industry remains robust despite regional disruptions.