RADA taking steps to address tomato glut amid surge in production

Jamaica’s farmers have significantly increased tomato production, particularly in the southern parishes, with St Elizabeth leading the way. However, local demand for tomatoes has remained steady, resulting in an oversupply in the market.

As a result, prices have declined, posing challenges for farmers who now struggle to sell their produce at sustainable rates. The Ministry of Agriculture is now working to secure new markets for the excess.

According to the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), the growth is the result of farmers’ dedication and strategic interventions.

RADA’s marketing team is actively working to secure new markets by engaging aggregators, purveyors and agro-processors to absorb the excess supply. Farmers facing challenges in selling their produce are encouraged to contact their RADA marketing officer for assistance. RADA has begun assessing the available produce and the marketing officers will assist in connecting farmers with suitable markets.

“This situation underscores why the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining has made cold storage a national priority. Proper storage infrastructure is essential to preserving excess produce, extending shelf life and ensuring that farmers can benefit from their hard work even when supply outpaces immediate market demand,” the ministry said.

Through the Agribusiness Cold Chain Initiative, the ministry is working to reduce post-harvest losses by up to 30 per cent. A key part of this effort is the Kirkvine Cold Storage Facility in Manchester, being developed under the REDI II initiative in partnership with the Jamaica Social Investment Fund.

This facility will include two 40-foot cold storage units providing 135.1 cubic meters of space, along with a separate 40-foot dry storage unit that adds an additional 67.54 cubic meters of capacity. It will also feature a dedicated processing area where produce can be sorted, washed and graded before storage. To guarantee sustainability and efficiency, the facility will be equipped with a photovoltaic system to reduce energy costs and a rainwater harvesting system to support operations.

“With this investment, over 1,500 farmers and aggregators in Kirkvine, Content and surrounding areas will have access to improved storage solutions, helping to stabilise prices, reduce waste and strengthen Jamaica’s agricultural value chain,” the ministry noted.

“The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining continues to ensure that farmers can maximise their earnings through strategic investments and market-driven interventions.”