Tomato traders in major markets in the Central Region are struggling to make ends meet due to the high cost of purchasing tomatoes. The recent price increase has led to a significant decrease in customers, with many opting for tomato puree instead.
At Kotokuraba Market in Cape Coast, three pieces of tomatoes were selling for GH¢20, while a box of tomatoes that previously cost around GH¢4,200 now costs between GH¢7,500 to GH¢7,800. Traders believe the price hike may be due to transportation costs or the exchange rate.
The situation is similar at Mankessim Market, known for its abundance of food produce, and Assin Fosu Market, where traders report a significant decrease in sales. With the Eid celebrations approaching, many customers are opting for meals that require less tomato, further affecting traders’ profits.
Traders are appealing to the government to intervene and help stabilize the prices, as they are struggling to make a profit. “We are not making enough profit because the prices are too high,” said one trader at Kotokuraba Market. “We are struggling to survive.”
The situation has also affected the quality of tomatoes available in the markets. “The high prices have led to a shortage of fresh tomatoes,” said another trader. “We are now forced to sell unripe tomatoes, which are not as sweet and juicy as the fresh ones.”
The traders are calling on the government to intervene and help stabilize the prices. “We need the government to help us,” said a trader at Mankessim Market. “We cannot continue like this. We need support to survive.”
The high prices of tomatoes have also affected consumers, who are now opting for alternative ingredients. “I used to buy tomatoes every week, but now I can’t afford them,” said a consumer at Assin Fosu Market. “I have to opt for tomato puree or other ingredients, which are not as healthy as fresh tomatoes.”
The situation has also affected the livelihoods of farmers who grow tomatoes. “We are not getting enough money for our tomatoes,” said a farmer at Nyankumasi Ahenkro Market. “We are struggling to survive, and it’s affecting our families.”
The government has been urged to intervene and help stabilize the prices of tomatoes, to alleviate the suffering of traders, consumers, and farmers.
Source:kofitutunews.com
