BAN OF MAIZE AND MEALIE MEAL EXPORT OPPOSED

Economist Highvie Hamududu has opposed the suspension of the export of maize and mealie meal as a measure to control the escalating prices of the two commodities in the country.

Recently, government announced the ban on the export of maize and mealie meal following the increasing prices of the commodity which has left many consumers complaining.

Commenting on this development, Mr. Hamududu says imposing restrictions on the movement of agricultural produce is not an answer to the current high prices being experienced but a route to destroying the agriculture sector.

He says government should make maize production profitable through the setting up of incentives such as ease of access to credit finance and favorable prices of the commodity.

Mr. Hamududu has also noted the need to create a market agency for Zambia’s agriculture crops which will allow farmers to have access to the export market.