The Isoka District Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the government’s decision to remove restrictions on the maize exports.
Isoka Chamber of Commerce Vice President Shadrick Silumbu has described the move as timely and beneficial to the local economy.
He says the decision will stimulate economic activity and unlock long-standing opportunities for farmers, millers and traders in the district.
Speaking in a phone interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) Mr Silumbu said the lifting of the export ban addresses concerns that stakeholders in the agriculture sector have raised over time.
“This is a step in the right direction. Farmers and traders have been waiting for this because it will open up markets and improve business,” he said.
Mr Silumbu explained that Isoka District was strategically positioned to benefit from cross-border trade, given its proximity to neighbouring countries such as Malawi and Tanzania.
He noted that the development will enable farmers to competitively sell their maize and mealie meal beyond Zambia’s borders, thereby increasing incomes and encouraging higher production.
“Our farmers now have a chance to take advantage of regional markets. This will boost production and improve livelihoods,” he added.
Mr Silumbu further stated that the removal of the export restriction was also expected to ease challenges associated with delayed payments from the Food Reserve Agency, which many farmers previously depended on as their primary buyer.
“Farmers will have more options and won’t have to wait long periods to be paid. That’s a big relief,” he said.
Government recently announced the removal of restrictions on the export of maize grain and maize products, including mealie meal.
