FRA RAISES MAIZE BUYING PRICE TO K347 PER BAG FOR 2026 MARKETING SEASON.
By Favourite K. Chisi
The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has increased the buying price of non-GMO Grade A white maize by K7, from K340 to K347 per 50-kilogram bag, for the 2026 Crop Marketing Season.
The agency has also announced a buying price of K7.50 per kilogram for paddy rice, equivalent to K300 per 40-kilogram bag.
FRA Board Chairperson Sureshi Desai says the agency plans to purchase at least 500,000 metric tonnes of maize and 10,000 metric tonnes of paddy rice, with the possibility of buying additional quantities depending on market conditions and available storage capacity.
Mr. Desai says the revised prices reflect the true value of the designated crops while ensuring farmers are fairly incentivized and compensated for their resilience, dedication and hard work.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, Mr. Desai said the government’s interventions are aimed at supporting the country’s target of producing 10 million metric tonnes of maize by 2030.
He has appealed to farmers to ensure they have active bank accounts or mobile money wallets registered in their names, as all FRA payments will be made through approved digital payment platforms
Mr. Desai has further advised farmers to prioritise household food security by retaining adequate maize for home consumption and selling only surplus produce, in view of the anticipated El Niño conditions that scientists have warned could affect future harvests.