The Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ), Southern Region, has welcomed the government’s decision to lift Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025, saying it will help address shortages and stabilise product prices.
GMAZ Southern Region chairperson David Moyo made the remarks during a tour of National Foods Limited in Bulawayo on Monday, led by Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi.
Moyo said many millers in the region had halted production due to a lack of raw materials and expressed optimism that lifting the grain import ban would ease these challenges. He said:
“We invited the Deputy Minister to come and assess the situation of millers in the Southern Region; milling plants don’t have the raw material, and even the available mealie meal is not enough to deliver to the shops.
“We have reached out to the Government, and we are so happy that the Government has heard our cry; the SI 87 of 2025 has been lifted, so that everyone can import maize.”
Moyo explained that the Southern Region produces little grain and relies on purchases from other regions, which drives up costs that are ultimately passed on to consumers.
Responding, Deputy Minister Modi said his visit to the millers was intended to demonstrate the government’s commitment to addressing industry grievances as quickly as possible. Said Modi:
“The Government will do its best to make sure that millers start importing as soon as possible.
“We cannot afford to have milling companies close because of the shortage of raw material. We will make sure that they can soon resume milling.”
GMAZ Southern Region vice-chairperson Mthokozisi Sibanda said there are few willing sellers from the Northern Region, which has become a significant challenge. He said:
“That is the reason why we are seeking the import to be opened so that we can restart the whole process of bringing sustainable provisions of food in the region.
“Another issue, we would like to appeal to the Government to at least expedite the process of issuing these import permits so that we can quickly close up the gaps that are beginning to be seen in the market.”
More: Chronicle
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