The Ministry of Agriculture is addressing the current tomato surplus by seeking new markets. Increased production has led to an oversupply, while local demand remains unchanged, causing price drops that challenge growers' profitability.
The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) is engaging with aggregators, purveyors, and agro-processors to manage the surplus. Farmers are advised to contact RADA marketing officers for support. RADA has begun assessing available produce to connect farmers with appropriate markets.
This scenario highlights the Ministry's focus on cold storage as a national priority. The Kirkvine Cold Storage Facility in Manchester, part of the REDI II initiative with the Jamaica Social Investment Fund, is a key project. It will feature two 40-ft cold storage units offering 135.1 cubic meters of space and a 40-ft dry storage unit with 67.54 cubic meters of capacity. The facility will include a processing area for sorting, washing, and grading produce before storage. A photovoltaic system and rainwater harvesting will enhance sustainability and efficiency.
Over 1,500 farmers and aggregators in Kirkvine, Content, and surrounding areas will benefit from improved storage solutions, aiming to stabilize prices, reduce waste, and strengthen Jamaica's agricultural value chain.
Source: Jamaican Gleaner