By Phalonzy

Burkina Faso has reversed its suspension on fresh tomato exports, a move poised to alleviate supply pressures and stabilize Ghana's local markets.

The decision, announced on April 2, 2026, is being hailed as a positive outcome of bilateral talks between Ghana and Burkina Faso.

"The development is a positive outcome of ongoing bilateral engagements between Ghana and Burkina Faso," said the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry in a statement. The ministry credited Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare's discussions with her Burkinabe counterparts on the margins of the WTO MC14 in Yaoundé, Cameroon, as a key factor in lifting the trade restrictions.

To ensure a seamless and mutually beneficial trading environment, the ministry assured the public of continued collaboration with Burkinabe authorities and local stakeholders. Efforts to fortify Ghana's domestic tomato value chain are being intensified, with initiatives such as Feed the Industry and Feed Ghana aiming to boost local production, enhance yields, and guarantee a stable tomato supply.

Targeted interventions, including irrigation projects and land allocation for large-scale cultivation, are underway to support year-round production and encourage backward integration with processors.

The ministry urged tomato traders and industry partners to cooperate with government measures designed to protect consumers and domestic processors, emphasizing that these steps are part of a broader strategy to safeguard local industries while promoting sustainable agricultural development.