Ghana, Burkina Faso strengthen trade ties as fresh tomato exports resume

The Government of Ghana has welcomed Burkina Faso’s decision to lift the suspension on Special Export Authorizations (ASE) for fresh tomatoes, a move set to restore steady supplies to the Ghanaian market.

The resumption follows improvements in Burkina Faso’s domestic tomato supply, particularly to its processing industries, alongside assurances from key stakeholders that adequate volumes will be maintained for local consumption.

The breakthrough is expected to ease supply constraints in Ghana, helping stabilise prices and improve access for both consumers and traders.

Diplomatic Engagements Pay Off

The development also reflects growing bilateral trade relations between the two neighbouring countries. Recent high-level discussions, including talks led by Ghana’s Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, on the sidelines of the World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference in Yaoundé, contributed significantly to resolving the impasse.

The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Burkinabe authorities to sustain a smooth and mutually beneficial trading relationship while ensuring consistency in the supply of essential food commodities.

Focus on Domestic Production

The government further indicated that it remains focused on strengthening Ghana’s domestic tomato industry to reduce future vulnerabilities. Strategic interventions aimed at boosting local production, enhancing value addition, and ensuring year-round supply are being intensified.

Programmes such as Feed the Industry and Feed Ghana are being scaled up, alongside investments in irrigation infrastructure and large-scale cultivation. Authorities are also encouraging stronger collaboration with local processing companies to promote backward integration and build a more resilient tomato value chain.

Call for Stakeholder Support

The government has called on traders and other stakeholders to support these initiatives as efforts continue to protect consumers while developing a more self-sufficient and sustainable agricultural sector.