Government starts issuing licences for maize export
Ministry of Trade has started issuing licences to export 500, 000 metric tonnes of maize
Secretary for Trade Christina Zakeyo said this decision has been taken by government following an updated national balance sheet as of 30th June which indicates that the country is food sufficient with enough stocks to last until the next harvest
Therefore Zakeyo says government has opened window for export of the maize which is part of the surplus for 2020 to 2021 agricultural season harvest
She says the maize export licences will only be issued to exporters with proof of verified maize stocks from the previous agricultural season
“The licences to be granted will have a validity period of 3 months and the exporter will be required to undertake a commitment to inform the ministry about the export proceeds received after within 180 days,” Zakeyo
Meanwhile, Grain Traders Association of Malawi describes the license application process as restrictive for the local farmers.
President of the association Grace Mijiga requested government to strengthen its relationship with the association and ensure that consultations are made before implementation of such initiatives for the benefit of local farmers.
But Mijiga has commended government for the timely initiative saying” traders will be able to find markets as potential buyers make their orders from December to January.”
However, Farmers Union of Malawi president Frighton Njolomole differs with Mijigo on timing saying it is not ideal for small scale farmers who are now busy in their fields.
Njolomole then request government to also take into account issues on hunger that might affect the country if not careful.
