Maize

The planned exports to the DRC aim to respond to rising demand from its northern neighbour, which continues to grapple with maize supply

Maize accounts for roughly 53% of Malawi’s Consumer Price Index (CPI), meaning that fluctuations in its supply significantly impact inflation and the broader economy.

John Kapito, executive director of the Consumers Association of Malawi, warned that prices are likely to continue climbing as the country nears the lean season.

The shipment follows a commercial agreement finalized during Export Exchange 2023 in Austin, Texas, and further reinforced during the 2024-25 Corn Quality Rollout held in Istanbul

Kenya’s high reliance on maize, a staple that is highly susceptible to aflatoxins, has worsened the problem, with detection and surveillance mechanisms remaining only marginally effective