The Millers Association of Zambia (MAZ) says it does not support the export of maize in its raw form as it takes away the value of the crop and benefits the importer more than the exporter.
Speaking in an interview with Money FM News, Association President Andrew Chintala explained that when maize is exported in its raw form its value is given away to the buyer who benefits from the product and its by-products as well as creates jobs for the people processing the product.
“When we export maize in its raw form, we also export jobs and all the by-products of the crop which we can benefit from,” he said.
Mr. Chintala added that exporting maize as a finished product has more benefits to the export Country as it provides employment to the local people and brings in Foreign Exchange which is needed for economic growth.
“Before we consider any alternative export earnings from the crop, we need to ensure the country is food secure,” he emphasized.