Zimbabwe's maize harvest cuts imports by 37%

Zimbabwe's improved maize harvest in 2025 has significantly reduced the country's reliance on imports, cutting volumes by 37 percent in the 10 months to November and easing pressure on scarce foreign currency amid rising global grain prices.

Official figures from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat) show that maize imports fell to about 947 100 tonnes, down from 1,5 million tonnes during the same period in 2024. The roughly 563 000-tonne reduction reflects stronger domestic supply following a recovery in agricultural output after the drought-hit 2023/24 season.

Zimbabwe's 2024/25 maize production benefited from favourable weather conditions, particularly improved rainfall in the latter half of the season, as well as an increase in planted areas. Government support and initiatives further boosted farmers' confidence, contributing to the higher output.

Imports were concentrated in the first three months of 2025, before the harvest, and again in October and November. During the other six months, imports averaged just 44 000 tonnes per month, indicating a sustained slowdown as local maize entered the market.

In value terms, Zimbabwe spent US$500,4 million on maize imports over the period, US$10,4 million less than in 2024. The smaller decline in the import bill was largely due to higher global prices, with white maize spot prices surging to US$355,88 per tonne in February 2025 amid tight physical stocks and market speculation.

Economist Tinevimbo Shava said the reduction in import volumes delivered meaningful foreign currency savings.

"If the country had imported the same quantities as in 2024, the foreign currency outflow would have been far higher given the price environment in 2025," Shava said, adding that stronger domestic production helped cushion the economy from external shocks.

ZimStat data indicates that maize production reached 1,82 million tonnes, nearly triple the 635 000 tonnes recorded last season. Communal areas contributed 794 105 tonnes, or 44 percent of national output, with Mashonaland West emerging as the largest producer.

Despite the gains, production still falls short of annual demand, estimated at about 2 million tonnes. This shortfall has prompted millers and stockfeed manufacturers to apply for permits to import 266 000 tonnes, according to the Agricultural Marketing Authority.

Agronomist Pamela Macheka emphasized that future gains should focus on improving productivity rather than expanding hectarage.

"Improving yields per hectare through better agronomic practices is key to sustaining production and reducing imports," Macheka said.

The government has also introduced measures to promote local procurement, including minimum local sourcing thresholds for processors starting in 2026, to further support domestic maize production and strengthen food security.