via Private millers to import 400k tonnes of maize | The Sunday Mail 31/01/2016

Private grain millers will import at least 400 000 tonnes of maize to complement Government’s efforts to beef up the country’s grain levels that are under threat due to this season’s drought, it has emerged.
This follows the granting of import permits to private players by Government early this month.
The grain, which is being sourced from South Africa, South America, Ukraine and Russia, is expected to start landing in the country soon.

Last year, the private players imported a similar amount of grain from Zambia.
Responding to questions from The Sunday Mail last week, Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe chairman Mr Tafadzwa Musarara said,

“The milling industry has imported close to 400,000 tonnes of maize from Zambia since February 2015. These stocks complimented locally produced maize.

“Our members have been able to mop up all the maize that was offered by local farmers on the market. The country requires an additional 400,000 tonnes between now and June 30. We shall be importing all of it.
“Demand has risen due to quick depletion of maize stocks due to the heat waves of the past months that saw crops wilting and grazing pastures getting damaged, thereby also increasing demand for cattle feeding.

Mr Musarara said private grain buyers are happy that Government is now issuing them the maize import permits.
In addition to the private sector efforts, Government has secured US$200 million in lines of credit for grain imports.
The Grain Marketing Board will also import 230 000 tonnes of maize, starting with the 30 000 tonnes that is needed urgently.
Currently, the country has enough grain stocks to last for at least eight months.
Zimbabwe is facing a drought that is causing maize shortages with areas such as Midlands, Masvingo, Matabeleland North and South already affected.

The country has received low rainfall since the start of the rain season and has also been experiencing high temperatures, a situation that has affected crops and livestock.