Zambia To Restrict Its Maize Exports Amid Record Drought

 

Zambia is the leading maize producer and exporter in the African continent. Eastern African nations are highly dependent on Zambia's maize exports to their country to overcome food security. But the country is reviving from the severe droughts. Also, the rainfall is not plenty enough to support good harvests.

Keeping these things in mind and to avoid any food shortage, Zambia has planned to restrict its maize exports. Zambia’s maize reserves are just sufficient to fulfil its people till next harvesting period. Although, this may affect its neighbouring countries. Till now, Zambia has over 300,000 metric tonnes of maize reserves.

Zambia import export data shows that Zambia’s maize top importers are Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Kenya, Malawi, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Congo, Mozambique and Congo. South Africa, which is the major food supplier for Africa, has asked for maize imports from Zambia. The demand from Kenya was also neglected by Zambia to support the domestic market.

According to the Zambia customs data reports, despite a 25% drop in the maize production, the maize exports from Zambia crossed over 150,000 metric tonnes during the financial year 2022. Whereas, in 2021, there was an increase of 4.8% and the exports were valued around $43 billion. 

Zimbabwe holds the maximum share in Zambia's overall maize exports. Zimbabwe accounted for 33% of Zambia's total maize exports. Zimbabwe imported around $23 million worth of maize from Zambia during 2022. Tanzania, Kenya and Malawi were other significant maize importers from Zambia. 

In terms of imports, Zambia made most of its imports from world’s top maize exporters like Mexico, Brazil, USA, and China. Zambia’s import data suggests over 3 million dollars worth of maize imports were recorded in 2022. Beverages, Wheat, Animal fodder, Food preparations are some of the key food imports of Zambia.

South Africa was the top maize exporting country to Zambia with over 75% share of corn imports and the value was estimated around $2.3 billion dollars. Along with South Africa, China, USA,  Malawi, Thailand, Mexico and Brazil were other major maize suppliers to Zambia during this period.

The forecast for Zambia's maize exports suggests an estimate of 400,000 metric tonnes for the fiscal year 2023. Zambia holds the major position in providing food security to its neighbouring countries. Some of the top agri exports from Zambia include maize, sorghum, millet, sunflower, groundnuts, soybean, cotton, sweet potato and cassava. 

Zambia export data reports shows maize is the leading food export commodity having over 55% share followed by Sorghum (25%). The most favoured destinations for Zambia's food exports are Congo, Zimbabwe, China and South Africa. Zambian agri business owners can fuel their sales to the international market through Global import export data provider reports by Exim Trade Data.

Exim Trade Data’s market research tool is quite economical and the best platform to gain intelligence over Africa and other markets. You can track import export shipments from over 200+ countries. It helps you to identify genuine buyers product wise and keeps you updated with your competitor activities. Through this tool, you can get quality leads and excel you sales in the international market.