Senegal has lifted the freeze on onion imports that had been in place since January 2025, the Ministry of Industry and Trade announced on Friday. The decision follows the gradual depletion of domestic onion stocks, which had supplied the national market for the past nine months.
The ministry confirmed that new import permits will be issued under a quota system and will remain valid until December 31, 2025. Authorities have urged all relevant departments to take the necessary measures to ensure a steady supply of onions to the market.
“The onion marketing campaign that opened on January 25, 2025, had covered the needs of the national market thanks to the local harvest,” the ministry said. “However, the scarcity of available stocks has led the authorities to reactivate imports in order to avoid a supply disruption.”
The permits are limited by quotas and must adhere strictly to the framework established by the ministerial circular. Economic operators have been instructed to ensure that imports arrive on schedule while complying with all directives issued to facilitate smooth entry into the country.
Senegal typically experiences seasonal tensions in the vegetable market during the rainy season, with shortages driving prices sharply higher. In some cases, the cost of vegetables can quadruple, placing a heavy burden on household budgets and sparking public debate over the need to secure stable supplies.
The ministry stressed that the decision to lift the import freeze reflects a balance between promoting national agriculture and ensuring affordable access to essential food items for consumers.
By allowing controlled imports, Senegal aims to prevent market disruptions while protecting the interests of local producers. The measure will remain in effect until the end of the year, ensuring that the country’s onion supply remains steady as domestic stocks continue to run low.
This latest move highlights the ongoing challenge for Senegal in managing the delicate balance between supporting local farmers and meeting consumer demand, particularly during periods of seasonal scarcity.
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