Cape Town – Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, has welcomed Zimbabwe’s decision to lift its ban on grain imports, following the gazetting of Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025.
He described the move as a boost for regional food security, economic stability, and consumer welfare.
Steenhuisen said that reopening the market benefits maize producers, encourages investment in agribusiness, strengthens regional integration, and allows surplus-producing countries to support their neighbours.
“This is an extremely welcome development that underscores the collective responsibility we share in ensuring food sufficiency,” the minister said.
We welcome the formal decision by the Zimbabwean authorities to lift the ban on the importation of maize and other grains. This move marks a return to sound economic principles essential for the prosperity and stability of the Southern African region. pic.twitter.com/0H9EhI2GY2
— John Steenhuisen MP (@jsteenhuisen) October 22, 2025
“The agricultural sector thrives on predictability and efficiency, and restrictive trade measures, while sometimes intended to protect local producers, too often lead to market distortions that ultimately harm the consumer.”
He added: “It strengthens regional integration and ensures that surplus-producing nations can readily meet the needs of their neighbours.”
The Department of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to promoting fair and efficient trade with regional partners.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
