Tomato Growers Reduce Acreage Amid Surplus

Processing tomato farmers in California are expected to reduce production this year after a big crop in 2023 and a softening in demand, an agriculture organization is reporting.

The state’s tomato canners planned to contract for 11.6 million tons this year, down about 10% from the 12.9 million tons they contracted for last year, according to the California Farm Bureau (CFB).

The Farm Bureau cites USDA statistics projecting a drop in planted acreage from 255,000 last year to 232,000 this year, with growers aiming to produce 50 tons per acre.

Last year’s wet winter replenished water supplies, enabling tomato growers to produce their largest crop in several years to take advantage of record prices paid by processors looking to bolster inventory, noted CFB. But demand is softening, prompting growers to scale back their acreage.

EDITOR’S TAKE:

Who says farmers can’t adapt to changing markets? It certainly appears that market signals are driving tomato producers to cut back acreage and production to be more in line with demand. This will not only conserve resources but also help bolster prices versus a production model of all out capacity. True agriculture can’t always turn production on or off on a moment’s notice, but the tomato producers are certainly giving it their best shot. You can also adapt to changing market conditions by using every tool the Certified Ag Group has to offer. If you haven’t been to our newly updated website, we strongly encourage you to take a peek at certifiedagdealer.com and check out all the new features and products. Pay special attention to the newest CADFI and CADProtect offerings. Both of these great products can help you attract and capture more business from tomato growers or any farmer/rancher in your area.