The Government has announced significant changes in grain importation regulations, aiming to address the challenges posed by the El Nino-induced drought and ensuring national food security.
These changes were disclosed by Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere following a recent Cabinet meeting, where food security emerged as a top agenda item.
Effective from July onwards, the new measures include duty waivers on the importation of essential grains such as rice, maize, potato seed, cooking oil, and genetically modified maize for stockfeed.
However, the milling and distribution of these imported grains will be closely supervised.
Additionally, Cabinet has sanctioned the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on rice and potato seed, considering the increased consumption of these imported products.
Minister Muswere emphasized that these adjustments aim to enhance accessibility to these staple foods.
Furthermore, Cabinet approved a report presented by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious Masuka, outlining the preliminary food security outlook for April 2024 to March 2025.
The report highlights the need to expand rice cultivation to meet rising demand and encourages support for local wheat production to offset maize deficits.
Dr. Masuka outlined the four components of the food security outlook: current stock, anticipated seasonal production, winter crop projections, and potential imports.
He stressed the importance of maintaining strict supervision over the importation of genetically modified maize and reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s robust regulatory framework for GMOs.
The decision to scrap VAT on rice and potato seed is expected to lower retail prices, benefiting consumers. Stakeholders, including the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe, have welcomed this move, citing potential cost reductions for consumers.
In response to these developments, the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe is expected to issue a comprehensive statement soon.
