The Government of Ghana has welcomed Burkina Faso’s decision to lift the suspension on the issuance of Special Export Authorisations (ASE) for fresh tomatoes, describing the move as a significant boost to supply and market stability.

In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, the government said the development follows improvements in tomato supply to local processing factories in Burkina Faso, as well as commitments by stakeholders to prioritise domestic industrial needs.

It noted that the decision is expected to restore the flow of fresh tomatoes into Ghana and ease recent shortages on the local market.

The statement further indicated that the outcome reflects ongoing bilateral engagements between the two countries.

It highlighted discussions led by the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, and her Burkinabe counterparts on the sidelines of the WTO MC14 in Yaoundé, which contributed to the resolution.

According to the Ministry, efforts will continue to ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial trading environment, with sustained engagement between both governments and key stakeholders in the tomato value chain.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local production through initiatives such as Feed the Industry and Feed Ghana, alongside investments in irrigation, large-scale cultivation, and support for processors to ensure a stable and sustainable supply of tomatoes in the long term.

Sompaonine.com/Derrick Djan