No need to import onion and potato, Zambia National Farmers’ Union says

Stakeholders in the Onion and Potatoes value chain have resolved that the country does not need to import onions and potatoes as it has adequate stocks. According to the Zambia National Farmers’ Union (ZNFU), the stakeholders met in Lusaka yesterday and agreed that there is no need for the country to import onions or frozen onion related products as the country has enough stocks for the market. ZNFU president, Jervis Zimba explained that the participants agreed that the country has adequate stocks from carryovers and fresh stocks. Mr. Zimba said to this effect, there will be no need for the country to import frozen chips, Potato Crisps, adding that importers of Potato Crisps shall be referred to the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry (MCTI) for further advice. He explained that this is because stakeholders are only in support of measures that will lead to increased production of potatoes locally and value addition. Mr. Zimba said the parties further agreed ...