Ramadan: Tomato prices unlikely to spike despite fasting – Farmers

• Tomato and other vegetable prices are expected to remain stable during Ramadan.
• Farmers cite bumper harvest and early timing of the fast as key factors.
• Federal support for farmers is urged ahead of the 2026 planting season.

The Tomatoes Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (TGPMAN) has moved to calm public concern over potential spikes in the prices of tomatoes and other vegetables during the upcoming Ramadan fast. Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday, Kaduna State chairman Rabiu Zuntu said this year’s market dynamics differ from previous years.

He explained that last year’s harvest season was generally unfavorable for farmers, with high input costs and low crop prices squeezing margins. “The prices of vegetable crops will drop further this Ramadan because cultivation may increase due to the demand for fast-breaking meals,” Zuntu said.

Supply and demand set to keep prices in check

Zuntu noted that Ramadan typically reduces daytime consumption, as the Muslim faithful skip breakfast and lunch. Coupled with a bumper harvest, this seasonal timing is expected to put downward pressure on prices. “Generally, when supply is high, prices go down,” he said.

He added that the current period coincides with the peak tomato harvest in northern states like Kaduna and Kano, meaning that, unlike previous years, shortages are unlikely. “Nigerians should not expect any increase in the price of tomatoes during Ramadan,” he emphasized, citing both strong supply and lower demand during the fast.

Current Tomato market prices and government support

Currently, a 50kg basket of tomatoes sells for between N7,000 and N10,000 in northern markets, depending on variety and size. Two weeks ago, the same quantity sold for as low as N5,000. Due to logistics, prices in southern markets like Lagos can rise to N18,000–N20,000 per basket.

Zuntu also thanked the national leadership of the tomato farmers’ association for advocating for government support that eases pressures on vegetable producers. He called on the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to assist farmers in the 2026 planting season, particularly by providing necessary farm inputs to sustain high production.

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“Government intervention is crucial to maintain supply and stabilize prices, ensuring that the public does not face unnecessary inflation on staple vegetables,” he concluded.