The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG) has launched a comprehensive National Tomato Production Strategy (2026–2030) aimed at reversing Ghana’s heavy dependence on tomato imports and unlocking billions of cedis in lost economic value.
The strategy, which requires an estimated GH¢3.2 billion investment, seeks to modernize production systems, expand processing capacity, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen value addition across the tomato supply chain.
CAG projects that successful implementation of the strategy could reduce tomato imports by at least GH¢600 million annually. Additionally, the initiative is expected to generate approximately GH¢220 million in tax revenues while creating up to 250,000 jobs.
Currently, Ghana imports between 75,000 and 100,000 metric tonnes of fresh tomatoes and 78,000 to 100,000 metric tonnes of tomato paste each year. Annual import expenditure ranges between GH¢650 million and GH¢760 million.
The Chamber highlighted that the country’s reliance on imports not only drains foreign exchange but also undermines domestic agricultural potential. Significant volumes of locally grown tomatoes continue to perish due to inadequate storage and limited processing facilities.
By addressing these structural challenges, the National Tomato Production Strategy aims to strengthen domestic production capacity, reduce foreign exchange outflows, and enhance food security.
CAG emphasized that coordinated government action, private sector investment, and improved infrastructure development will be critical to the strategy’s success.
According to the Chamber, transforming the tomato sector is not only an agricultural priority but also an economic necessity that could retain billions of cedis within Ghana’s economy while safeguarding traders and boosting rural livelihoods.
