Senegal has suspended imports of potatoes and onions effective January 16, 2026, in a move aimed at stabilizing prices, protecting domestic producers, and ensuring the smooth marketing of locally grown crops, the government announced.
The decision was taken at a strategic meeting held on January 13 at the headquarters of the Market Regulation Agency (Agence de Régulation du Marché, ARM), which focused on preparations for the 2025-2026 agricultural season for these key staple products. Authorities said that local production levels are now sufficient to meet domestic demand. Potatoes are expected to be available on local markets from January 15, while onions are projected to reach the market from February 15.
“The government is acting to guarantee that local farmers can sell their produce and that consumers benefit from stable prices,” the Ministry of Industry and Trade said in a statement. The ministry emphasized that the measure is part of a broader effort to balance market supply, protect strategic agricultural products, and support Senegal’s food security objectives.
Customs statistics indicate that 95% of planned imports under established quotas have already been executed, leaving sufficient stocks to meet domestic demand until local products are in the market. The Ministry of Industry and Trade said all new import authorizations for potatoes and onions are suspended until further notice. Customs authorities and the Directorate of Internal Trade have been tasked with enforcing the measure, including blocking unauthorized shipments.
Economic operators with shipments already at sea or in transit have been advised to liaise with the ARM and Customs to determine options for handling the cargoes. Possible arrangements include redirection to other markets, storage in bonded warehouses, or special declarations to ensure compliance with the suspension while avoiding disruption to supply chains.
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The ARM is expected to publish operational guidelines soon, detailing rules for marketing, price monitoring, and communication with consumers. Authorities have called on all actors in the supply chain – producers, traders, importers, and technical services – to cooperate and exercise responsibility to ensure that the measure is implemented effectively and in the interest of the Senegalese market.
Market analysts say that Senegalese authorities are increasingly intervening to protect domestic production as global agricultural commodity prices fluctuate. Potatoes and onions are considered strategic products due to their widespread consumption and significant role in local livelihoods. By restricting imports temporarily, the government hopes to prevent market oversupply and sharp price fluctuations that could harm farmers who have invested in the current season’s harvest.
The suspension also reflects a broader policy trend in Senegal toward encouraging local agricultural production and reducing dependence on imports. Over the past decade, the government has introduced various support programs for farmers, including input subsidies, access to mechanization, and technical training to boost yields and competitiveness.
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Consumer groups, however, have called for careful monitoring to ensure that the suspension does not lead to sudden price spikes at the retail level. Analysts say that while the current stocks of imported potatoes and onions should meet demand in the short term, close oversight of market dynamics will be necessary as local production begins to arrive.
Senegal is one of West Africa’s largest producers of onions and potatoes, with cultivation concentrated in several key regions. Both products are essential components of the national diet, and their prices are closely watched by both policymakers and consumers. By coordinating production schedules, import levels, and market monitoring, the government aims to strike a balance between supporting farmers and protecting consumers.
The January 16 suspension is expected to remain in place until local production is fully established and market conditions stabilize. Authorities have emphasized that the measure is temporary and strategic, reflecting both agricultural policy priorities and efforts to maintain food security while safeguarding the interests of domestic producers.
