The government of Ghana has announced plans to engage authorities in Burkina Faso following a directive suspending the export of fresh tomatoes from that country.

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, it stated that discussions would be held to address concerns surrounding the ban, which took effect on March 16.

Diplomatic engagement underway

According to the statement, the engagement aims to find a mutually beneficial resolution that safeguards trade relations between the two neighbouring countries while addressing the issues that prompted the restriction.

The government indicated that it was committed to resolving the matter through dialogue to minimise the impact on traders and consumers.

Boosting local production

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local tomato production through initiatives such as the “Feed Ghana” and “Feed the Industry” programmes. These efforts are intended to boost output and ensure sufficient supply for the domestic market.

Call for calm

Meanwhile, traders and stakeholders in the tomato sector have been urged to remain calm as diplomatic efforts continue to resolve the matter amicably.