• Senegal to build 200,000-300,000 tons of cold storage in two years for horticulture.
• Aims to cut 10-20% post-harvest losses and support rising production.
• Talks underway with China’s Guangxi Chang Neige Group for investment.

Senegal plans to establish a storage system with a capacity of 200,000 to 300,000 tons over the next two years to support its horticultural sectors. Serigne Guèye Diop, Minister of Industry and Trade, announced the plan during the first national forum on horticulture, which took place from August 5 to 6 in Diamniadio.

According to the Senegalese Press Agency (APS), the initiative aims to improve the sector's competitiveness. “Discussions are underway with partners for the development of at least 200,000 tons of storage capacity,” Guèye said.

This announcement follows a meeting in July between the Market Regulation Agency (ARM) and the Chinese cold chain equipment manufacturer Guangxi Chang Neige Group. The two parties met to “explore partnership opportunities and investment avenues” for deploying modern cold storage infrastructure throughout the country.

Strengthening storage capacity is a crucial step for Senegal's horticultural sector. Official estimates show that post-harvest losses, a major challenge, affect 10 to 20% of the country’s harvests each year.

The initiative is particularly strategic because it supports the growth momentum of the horticultural sector in recent years. In 2025, for example, Senegal expects record harvests for onions and potatoes, its two main horticultural products after watermelon.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade projects this year's onion production will reach 450,000 tons, a 5% increase from the 2018-2023 average of 429,000 tons. Potato production is expected to reach 240,000 tons, a 64% increase from the 146,000-tonne average over the same period.

“Our ability to meet national demand and export remains limited due to challenges related to productivity, quality, and product preservation,” Guèye said.

Stéphanas Assocle