Onions: imports resume as producers denounce a freeze favouring agribusiness

Onion imports will be authorised again from Monday, 31 August 2026. The Ministry of Industry and Trade informed economic operators and stakeholders in the sector, ending a suspension introduced on 16 January.

The measure was intended to support the marketing of national production and protect small producers before the arrival of foreign products. Imports are resuming as local stocks have declined, with the stated aim of avoiding supply difficulties and increased pressure on prices.

Producers criticise the system

The decision comes amid opposition from some producers. El Hadji Tacko Ndiaye, president of the Fédération des producteurs des Niayes, believes the freeze mainly benefited large operators with extensive landholdings, financial resources and cold-storage facilities.

According to Cheikh Tidiane Cissé, secretary-general of the Fédération des paysans du Bassin arachidier, yield gaps are intensifying this competition. He cites around 30 to 35 tonnes per hectare for a small producer, compared with 70 to 80 tonnes for agribusiness. With production costs ranging from 125 to 150 CFA francs per kilogramme, small producers believe they need to sell at around 250 CFA francs per kilogramme to cover their costs, whereas major operators could offer prices close to 175 CFA francs.

Storage at the heart of demands

For farmers' organisations, the lack of suitable infrastructure forces many market gardeners to sell their harvest quickly when supply is abundant. Storage capacity, by contrast, would allow major operators to delay their sales and better choose when to place produce on the market.

Producers are also calling on L’Arm to regulate the domestic market more closely, beyond controlling the entry of imported products. They are seeking stronger organisation of the sector, including storage equipment, better coordinated marketing and fewer intermediaries.

Local seed production is also among their priorities. Producers want support mechanisms for this activity, believing it would help retain more value within the national economy.