FRA SAYS ZAMBIA IN TALKS WITH SEVERAL COUNTRIES TO EXPORT MAIZE
By Elesani Phiri
The Food Reserve Agency-FRA-says Zambia is in talks with several countries that have expressed interest in buying maize as government seeks to expand export markets for the commodity.
FRA Executive Director Justin Chuunka has told Phoenix News that following the successful conclusion of negotiations with Kenya on the purchase of about 540,000 metric tonnes of maize, the agency is also engaging Zimbabwe, where discussions are expected to result in a maize supply contract.
Mr. Chuunka has also disclosed that Namibia, Botswana, and Kazakhstan have shown interest in buying Zambian maize, while buyers from the middle east have also expressed interest in accessing the grain.
He said Zambia currently has about 7 million metric tonnes of maize, comprising 5.1 to 5.2 million metric tonnes produced during the 2026 season and about 1.6 million metric tonnes of carryover stocks.
Mr. Chuunka explained that the availability of the stocks has positioned the country to explore both regional and international markets while creating a market for farmers.
He however said FRA cannot yet determine the total quantity that will be sold to the different countries expressing interest, as each request will have to be assessed against available stocks.
PHOENIX NEWS