The government has since opened borders for importation of tomatoes and apples after they were closed in February due to high production in the country.

This was said by the Chief Information Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition Mr. Lereko Masopha in an interview with the Agency.

Mr. Masopha said the decision to re-open borders for these products was due to low production in the country.

However, he said farmers who still have these products continue to sell them in the market and retail stores.

Also interviewed was Maluti Fresh Produce Market Manager, Mr. Thabo Khalema who said they have not imported tomatoes yet because it is expensive, adding that they are still buying apples locally and will not import them anytime soon.

He also indicated that they are currently importing potatoes, carrots and beetroot.

Meanwhile, earlier at the press conference, the Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition Mr. Thabo Mofosi said that borders will be closed due to high production of these products in the country and the intention was to ensure that they do not get destroyed or rotten.

He indicated that production of tomatoes was estimated to 497 004 boxes, saying three orchards of apples were identified at Likhetlane, Maoamafubelu and Likhothola which had a capacity of 135 750 boxes of apples.

He concluded by commending farmers for the production and participation in the annual Market Day.

Reports indicate that farmers, who partake on national market day sold their products and collected over M100, 000.

Source: LENA 17/04/2024