ABSTRACT
Successful tomato production around the world has generally been concentrated in areas where climate is particularly favorable. There are at least two ways to determine local demand for fresh tomatoes: study the monthly volume of tomato transactions in major markets or establish consumption patterns and per capita consumption. Developing countries favored by exceptional climate and proximity to market can export reasonable quantities of fresh-market tomatoes to developed countries, thereby increasing farmers’ incomes and adding to the country’s foreign exchange. In addition to establishing the demand potential, it is advisable to thoroughly analyze the natural, human, and financial resources of the region or country. There are three probable sources of financial assistance for a tomato-production program: banks, cooperatives and farmers’ associations, and traders. Once a decision has been made to go into production, implementation of the program is left to the production manager or a coordinating council.
