Govt opens borders for Zambians to import maize without paying duties

Cabinet has announced the suspension of the 15 percent import duty and five percent surtax on maize imports, reducing them to zero.

The Ministry of Agriculture has been directed to issue import permits to Zambians.

Chief Government Spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa, announced this measure, aiming to encourage private sector involvement in maize imports and ensure food security in the country.

Read more: Millers reject maize imports, fear move could affect local production, distort prices

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka on Wednesday, Mweetwa stated, “Cabinet also resolved that Zambian truck drivers will be exclusively deployed for maize haulage, bolstering this sector.”

Furthermore, he mentioned that a committee of ministers, led by the vice-president, will establish a task force for the efficient redistribution of Food Reserve Agency maize.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.