Ouagadougou: The suspension measure aims to allow tomato processing plants to obtain supplies so they can operate at full capacity, create jobs, and generate added value. These plants' needs are estimated at between 20 and 25% of national production. As soon as the necessary quantities are collected, the measure can be lifted. The objective is not to harm producers, but rather to protect their interests while allowing local industries to create jobs, stated Prosper Zemba, Director General of Plant Production.
According to Burkina Information Agency, in a joint statement dated March 16, 2026, the Ministers of Agriculture and Trade decided to suspend the export of fresh tomatoes to ensure the supply of established industrial processing facilities. This decision follows the observation that these facilities are experiencing supply difficulties, despite an agreement reached with producers on the price per kilogram and their commitment to supplying the raw material.
"Indeed, after several meetings, the last of which was held on January 19, 2026, we reminded stakeholders that, given the factories' capacity, 20 to 25% of production is sufficient to supply them. The idea is therefore to organize ourselves to mobilize this quantity for the benefit of the industrial units, while the remaining 75 to 80% can be freely marketed in order to maximize producers' profits. Following this meeting, a consensus was reached, and the producers committed to mobilizing the necessary quantities in the following weeks. To date, follow-up with the factories shows that the situation remains unchanged," explained Prosper Zemba.
He also noted that Burkina Faso spends nearly 5 billion CFA francs annually on tomato paste imports. According to him, this temporary measure to suspend fresh tomato exports will ensure the continued operation of processing plants, increase the added value of domestic production, and create jobs.
Addressing the issue of production costs, he indicated that the government is making significant efforts to support producers. For the 2025 growing season, hybrid seed varieties, better suited to processing, have been acquired and distributed to producers. The government has also mobilized 17,000 tons of fertilizer, primarily for tomato and wheat production, while the Burkina Faso Tomato Company (SOBTO) has acquired an additional 1,200 tons. In addition, irrigation equipment consisting of 725 motor pumps and over 54,000 PVC pipes has been provided, all subsidized at between 55% and 65%. Subsidized plowing is also available, made possible by equipment provided to the Ministry by the President of Burkina Faso, His Excellency Captain Ibrahim Traore.
"The State will continue its support, which will be further strengthened for the 2026 and 2027 campaigns," said Mr.