Zimbabwe implements import regulations to bolster domestic grain sourcing, food security
The policy has received positive feedback from key industry stakeholders, who view it as a pivotal advancement in fostering self-sufficiency.
ZIMBABWE – The Government of Zimbabwe has introduced Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025, the Agricultural Marketing Authority (Grain, Oilseed and Products) Amendment Regulations (No. 2) in a strategic move to curb escalating food import costs and enhance national food sovereignty.
This pivotal regulation aims to reduce reliance on foreign supplies by mandating a gradual shift toward local procurement of grains and oilseeds.
The enactment addresses the substantial rise in the country’s food import bill, which climbed to US$976.1 million in 2024, a 55.2 percent increase from US$628.9 million in 2023, largely due to a severe drought.
Grain imports, especially maize, constituted the majority of this expenditure, surpassing US$1 billion when combined with oilseeds and related products, according to data from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.
Under the new regulations, import restrictions are imposed alongside requirements for processors to source an increasing proportion of their grain and oilseed needs domestically.
Commencing in April 2026, at least 40 percent of these requirements must be procured from local producers, with the threshold rising incrementally to 100 percent by April 2028. This phased approach is designed to foster sustainable agricultural growth while protecting local farmers from competition posed by cheaper imports.
Professor Obert Jiri, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, outlined the policy’s intent, noting its alignment with recent border management decisions.
“The 2024-25 season yielded 2.3 million tonnes of maize and nearly 600,000 tonnes of traditional grains, sufficient to meet national needs until the next harvest,” he explained.
He reiterated that borders were temporarily closed to prioritise local off-take, resulting in five months of domestic purchases by millers and agro-processors. They have now been reopened for maize imports intended for stock feeds, but Statutory Instrument 87 safeguards against imports that could erode local production.
Professor Jiri further emphasized the balance struck by the regulation, which permits imports only after processors fulfill the 40 percent local sourcing mandate, thereby shielding farmers from undercutting while ensuring supply stability.
Stakeholders in the agricultural sector have endorsed the measure as a forward-thinking strategy.
Paul Zakariya, Secretary-General of the Zimbabwe Farmers Union, commended it for promoting domestic consumption and economic retention.
“This ensures currency circulates locally, reduces foreign exchange losses, and paves the way for exports. With ample local resources, scaling up production will lead to self-sufficiency in maize and traditional grains,” he stated.
Dr. Shadreck Makombe, President of the Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union, highlighted its role in capacity building. He said that the regulation enhances production strengths and positions Zimbabwe to supply regional markets.
“Governmental support in subsidized inputs, mechanization, and climate-resilient practices is vital for yield improvements and food sovereignty,” he noted.
Munyaradzi Hwengwere, Executive Chairperson of Buy Zimbabwe, added that it incentivizes productivity and fortifies local industries.
Mrs. Mayiwepi Jiti, President of the Zimbabwe Integrated Commercial Farmers Union, advocated for complementary measures to achieve the sourcing targets, including government-financed initiatives, upgraded irrigation and infrastructure, high-yield seeds, diversification, extension services, and technological training.
She proposed a “production parity price” system for fair farmer returns and mandatory organizational membership to improve advocacy.
While acknowledging risks such as potential market monopolies, supply disruptions, and intensified competition from import curbs, Mrs. Jiti recommended governmental oversight, competitive promotion, and cooperative support to mitigate these issues.
This year’s cereal harvest of 2.9 million tonnes, exceeding the 2.2 million tonne national requirement and featuring a record 634,000 tonnes of traditional grains, underscores Zimbabwe’s progress toward self-reliance. Officials assert that Statutory Instrument 87 will not only save over US$1 billion in annual imports but also stimulate agro-industrial expansion.
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