Business Writer
Local industry advocacy group Buy Zimbabwe has applauded the recent development within the agriculture sector which has seen maize imports falling from US$ 31,6 million in May 2025 to US$ 18,8 million in May 2026, according to statistics provided by Zimstats.
Buy Zimbabwe Chairman Munyaradzi Hwengwere commended the development describing it as a significant achievement for the country’s agriculture sector and a step towards achieving self-sufficiency in the production of maize, which is a staple food for the majority of Zimbabweans.
“This decrease in grain imports can be attributed to the efforts and investments made by local farmers and the government’s commitment to supporting the local agricultural sector.
This is a testament to the resilience and hard work of our farmers, who have adopted modern farming techniques and technologies to increase their productivity,” said Mr. Hwengwere.
Mr. Hwengwere cited a number of benefits which can be derived from the decrease in grain imports.
“This decrease in grain imports will not only benefits the agricultural sector but also has a positive impact on the country’s economy as a whole. It creates employment opportunities, reduces the trade deficit and boosts the local market,” he added.
Economic analyst Dr Levious Chiukira said for the country to be self-sufficient in food, Zimbabwe needs to uphold the buy local norm and make it mandatory for home-based brands in the food manufacturing industry.
“The decrease in grain imports reflects the success of the Buy Zimbabwe initiative; in the agriculture sector we encourage the local agro-processors to procure raw material from the local farmers as this assists in saving foreign currency and creating jobs,” said Dr Chiukira.
He however raised concern within the agriculture sector over rising seed imports.
“The May statistics from the Zimstats indicates that Zimbabwe is relying less on imported maize grain, which could be a positive sign of domestic supply recovery following drought impacts. However, the increase in seed imports highlights continued dependence on external sources for agricultural inputs,” said Dr Chiukira.
In reaffirming commitment to upscale Buy Local agenda and the reduction of imports, Buy Zimbabwe will host the Buy Zimbabwe Anti-Counterfeit Day on 26 August 2026.
This landmark event will serve as a rallying point for industry stakeholders, policymakers and consumers to unite in protecting authentic local brands.