Ministry of Trade and Industry has said the elevation of roots and tuber crops into the core of the country’s industrialisation strategy is key to import substitution.
Speaking in an interview after a high-level workshop in Lilongwe on Thursday, Minister of Trade and Industry Vitumbiko Mumba said the government restricted the importation of potatoes under the Control of Goods Act to boost local production.
“Every time we import potatoes, we export jobs. However, every time we choose local alternatives, we unlock employment for our women and youth, empower our cooperatives and keep wealth in our own economy,” he said.
The workshop, convened by the ministry in partnership with the International Potato Centre brought together producers, off-takers and policymakers to discuss how to transform the root and tuber crops subsector from a subsistence pillar into a commercial and industrial engine.
Despite widespread cultivation by smallholder farmers and rising yields, Malawi still imports substantial volumes of potatoes and related products, widening the trade deficit.
Ministry of Trade and Industry Principal Secretary Christina Zakeyu said in a separate interview that Malawi still imports a lot of roots and tuber products annually despite having local capable producers.
“Notable supermarkets and restaurants have been coming to the ministry to obtain licences to import potatoes often due to perceived quality issues or lack of consistent supply,” she said.
Irish Embassy in Malawi second secretary Jacob Hansen Shearer said in an interview that discussions and action plans developed at the workshop will bolster the country’s trade with other countries and promote economic resilience.
A Dedza-based farmer Daudi James Maulana said in an interview that smallholder farmers are willing to step up and produce more.
