Why tomato prices are set to soar from May - TOPAN

By Ejire Folakunmi

The Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria (TOPAN) has predicted a steady increase in the price of the produce between May and June 2026.

The Kaduna State Chairman of TOPAN, Mr. Rabiu Zuntu, disclosed this on Friday, noting that while tomatoes can be planted year-round, seasonal weather variations often affect harvest quality.

“Tomatoes are still available for sale, but the price is gradually on the increase. By May or June, the prices will be very expensive because the weather in the north is usually very hot, and tomatoes cannot resist such temperatures,” he said.

Zuntu stated that a 50kg basket of tomatoes now sells for N20,000 in the north, up from the N7,000 to N10,000 range recorded earlier in the year. Similarly, a crate of tomatoes is now sold between N10,000 and N15,000, compared to the previous price of N5,000 to N6,500.

In parts of Kano State, where there was a bumper harvest, supplies are rounding off. Buyers have now turned to Kaduna and Plateau states for supply.

Currently, a 50kg basket of tomatoes in Lagos sells between N40,000 and N60,000, depending on the size and quality.