In this context, international food security expert Dr. Fadel ELZUBI noted that amid the ongoing debate over rising prices of certain agricultural products—particularly tomatoes—a key question emerges: How can the government, represented by the Ministries of Industry, Trade, and Agriculture, regulate prices in a way that balances consumer protection with the sustainability of agricultural production?
ELZUBI added that Minister of Agriculture Saeb Khreisat recently clarified there is no justification at present for imposing price ceilings on vegetables, stressing that Jordan does not import vegetables but relies on local production, with a self‑sufficiency rate of 61%. This figure reflects the strength of the agricultural sector, while also placing significant responsibility on government oversight mechanisms to ensure fair pricing.
He explained: “During last Ramadan, markets witnessed a notable increase in tomato prices due to reduced supply (180–200 tons daily versus a daily need of 450–500 tons). With production now back to normal levels, the minister confirmed that current quantities fully meet local demand, and that a fair tomato price ranges between 0.70–0.80 dinars per kilo.”
ELZUBI highlighted the government’s diverse tools to regulate prices, from temporarily halting exports to redirect production toward the domestic market when unjustified price hikes occur, to continuous coordination between the Ministries of Industry, Trade, and Agriculture to monitor prices and intervene when necessary.
He added: “Of course, supply and demand play a central role, with the government allowing the market to set prices freely, but intervening when distortions or abuses occur through daily monitoring of central market inflows and curbing attempts at monopoly or unjustified price increases.”
ELZUBI also pointed to the significant impact of multiple marketing layers and intermediaries, which often inflate the final consumer price. “There is usually a wide gap between the price farmers receive ‘at the farm gate’ and what citizens pay. This underscores the importance of strict oversight of distribution channels and empowering cooperatives to enable farmers to market directly, reducing extra costs and supporting small farmers in facing sustainability challenges.”
Beyond market mechanisms, ELZUBI emphasized: “Climate change and weather fluctuations pose real challenges to production stability. This reality requires the sector to adopt modern farming tools such as hydroponics and smart greenhouses to ensure continuous supply.”
He continued: “During peak production periods, the food processing sector—such as tomato paste factories—plays a vital role as a safety valve, absorbing economic shocks. It protects farmers from losses due to price drops while building strategic local reserves that strengthen supply chain resilience.”
Returning to the central question—are price ceilings necessary? ELZUBI explained: “Price ceilings are exceptional tools, typically used in cases of severe disruption or monopoly. The minister believes current conditions do not warrant them, especially with expected price declines in April due to abundant production. However, from an economic perspective, ceilings may become necessary if prices continue rising to levels that burden consumers and threaten food security, particularly given limited household incomes in Jordan. If regional conflict escalates further, food security will be at the heart of the regional storm.”
He concluded: “Decision‑makers have flexible tools to regulate prices without immediately resorting to ceilings, such as halting exports and inter‑ministerial coordination. Nevertheless, ceilings remain a reserve option that must be activated before prices spiral out of control. The greatest challenge lies in striking a balance between protecting consumers and supporting farmers, which requires strict oversight and transparency in market management.”