Analysis of Tomato Marketing System in Owerri Agricultural Zone, Imo State, Nigeria

Tomato marketing plays a critical role in food supply, income generation, and employment in Nigeria, yet the system is often constrained by perishability, seasonal price instability, and weak market organization. This study analysed the tomato marketing system in the Owerri Agricultural Zone of Imo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Primary data were collected from 105 tomato traders using a structured questionnaire administered across major markets in the zone.The results show that tomato marketing in the study area is dominated by economically active traders, with the majority falling within the 32–41 age bracket. Female traders constituted a higher proportion of participants. Tomato supply in the zone was found to depend largely on northern Nigeria, particularly Jos and the Kaduna–Zaria axis, with Relief Market serving as the main aggregation and redistribution hub. Retailers constituted the largest group of market participants, highlighting the consumption-oriented nature of the market. The study recommends the standardisation of measurement units, improvement of market information systems, strengthening of local aggregation and storage facilities, among others.