Opinion / Columnist
Import ban of horticultural products laudable
18 Oct 2017 at 13:51hrs | Views
The ban of imported fresh horticultural products by Government is a noble idea and should be applauded, as it promotes and boosts the BuyZimbabwe policy.
Apart from promoting the consumption of local products, the import ban of horticultural products will also ensure the propping up of local farmers who are in the business of growing and selling crops such as fruits and vegetables.
Of late, local farmers were facing marketing challenges due to an influx of cheap imports of the same products from neighbouring countries.
It is saddening to note was that most local retail shops preferred importing agricultural products as compared to promoting local farmers.
Retailers are encouraged to sub-contract horticulture farmers so that they get constant supplies of the farm products that they require in their shops.
Banning of imported horticultural products seeks to ensure that there is an increase in productivity and competitiveness of horticultural products from local farmers.
Demand for local produce will lead to employment creation as farmers will require more man power for increased production in order to meet demand.
Moreover, by banning imports of horticulture products, the country's import bill will be reduced hence saving foreign currency which is needed in other critical sectors of the economy such as energy.
Apart from promoting the consumption of local products, the import ban of horticultural products will also ensure the propping up of local farmers who are in the business of growing and selling crops such as fruits and vegetables.
Of late, local farmers were facing marketing challenges due to an influx of cheap imports of the same products from neighbouring countries.
It is saddening to note was that most local retail shops preferred importing agricultural products as compared to promoting local farmers.
Retailers are encouraged to sub-contract horticulture farmers so that they get constant supplies of the farm products that they require in their shops.
Banning of imported horticultural products seeks to ensure that there is an increase in productivity and competitiveness of horticultural products from local farmers.
Demand for local produce will lead to employment creation as farmers will require more man power for increased production in order to meet demand.
Moreover, by banning imports of horticulture products, the country's import bill will be reduced hence saving foreign currency which is needed in other critical sectors of the economy such as energy.
Source - Peacemaker Zano
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