Zimbabwe sets new rules to push local crop use in food industry
The country moves to cut imports and support farmers through new sourcing and pricing policies.
ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe has introduced new rules that will require food producers to buy more crops from local farmers, in a move aimed at reducing imports and strengthening domestic agriculture.
The government will require millers, stockfeed producers, and food processors to source at least 40 percent of their raw materials locally starting April 1, 2025. Authorities will raise this share in phases until companies meet full compliance by 2028.
Zimbabwe has seen a sharp rise in agricultural imports over the past decade. Data shows that spending on key inputs such as oilseeds and cottonseed grew from US$142 million to US$346 million between 2010 and 2024. Total food imports reached about US$976.1 million in 2024, up from US$628.9 million in 2023.
Officials link this increase to a drought linked to El Niño, which forced the country to import more grain and oilseeds.
The new policy also introduces a pricing protection measure. If imported goods enter the market at a lower cost than local products, authorities will direct the price difference into an Agriculture Revolving Fund. The fund will support local farmers and help them improve output.
The Zimbabwe Farmers Union has backed the policy and called it a step in the right direction for the sector.
“By safeguarding local markets, the regulation helps retain value in our agriculture sector, supports livelihoods in rural communities, and contributes to broader goals of rural resilience and climate-smart agriculture,” the union said.
“The ZFU reiterates its commitment to working with government, processors, input suppliers and extension services to ensure that Zimbabwe’s farmers are ready to respond to the opportunities presented by this regulation.”
Some industry players have raised concerns about higher costs. They argue that limits on imports could affect their ability to source cheaper raw materials from global markets.
At the same time, recent developments show the government plans to strengthen oversight and ensure companies follow the new rules. Officials say they will monitor compliance closely and adjust the rollout where needed to avoid supply gaps.
The policy marks a clear shift in how Zimbabwe plans to support its food system, with a stronger focus on local production and reduced reliance on imports.
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