Zambian government lifts onions import ban due to shortages

Published 2021년 4월 9일

Tridge summary

The Zambian government has lifted a ban on the import of onions and potatoes, which it had imposed in an effort to stimulate local onion cultivation. The ban was lifted due to emerging shortages in the country. The Agriculture Ministry has announced the immediate need to import 10,000 tons of onions to address the shortage. Bernard Sikunyongana, Chairman of the Zambian Fruit and Vegetable Traders Association, welcomed the government's decision, stating it would meet demand for the next three months. Former Director General of the National Union for Small-Scale Farmers in Zambia, Frank Kayula, suggested a middle ground approach, proposing a quota system on imports to strike a balance between imports and local cultivation.

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Original content

Just weeks after the Zambian government banned the import of onions and potatoes, authorities reversed this decision. The main reason for this turnaround is that shortages of this basic product are starting to arise. The original decision was taken in an effort to boost local onion cultivation, but now the Agriculture Ministry says the country urgently needs to import 10,000 tons of onions. Bernard Sikunyongana, Chairman of the Zambian Fruit and Vegetable Traders Association, praised the government for its responsiveness and willingness to reconsider its decision. He said 10,000 tons of imported onions would be enough for three months' demand. Frank Kayula, former Director General of the National Union for Small-Scale Farmers in Zambia, added that the ...

Source: Uiennieuws