Government Strategy Aims to Stabilize Local Tomato Supply and Prices
The Jordanian government, under the leadership of Agriculture Minister Khaled Hneifat, has introduced a phased approach to regulate tomato exports as a response to rising market prices and a reduction in tomato imports. This policy is designed to ensure sufficient availability of tomatoes for domestic consumption and to curb further price increases.
The Ministry of Agriculture has observed a significant decline in the volume of tomatoes being imported, which, coupled with the rising market prices, has prompted the government to take action. The reduction in supply to central markets has been attributed to shifts in production cycles and higher temperatures affecting crop yields.
As part of this strategy, the Jordanian government is prepared to gradually restrict tomato exports, with a potential complete halt if the current trends persist. This move is intended to prioritize the local market and mitigate the impact of reduced imports and inflated prices on consumers.
According to Petra, the Ministry is optimistic that the market situation will stabilize by mid-August. The anticipated normalization in supply volumes is expected to meet or even exceed domestic demand, which should result in a decrease in prices.
This regulatory approach by the Jordanian government highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between export activities and local market needs, particularly in times of fluctuating agricultural production and pricing dynamics.
