Maize Supply Faces Severe Disruptions Amidst Growing Demand and Aflatoxin Challenges
Zambia’s maize market is bracing for significant supply risks and price increases as it contends with a series of adverse events, including aflatoxin contamination and extreme weather conditions.
Economic analyst Mr. Kelvin Chisanga highlights that the maize supply chain is under severe stress due to limited standing stock and increasing demand.
Recent aflatoxin outbreaks have compounded the situation, impacting the quality of available maize and creating an environment of heightened market uncertainty.
Although trade systems had started stabilizing post-pandemic, the beginning of this year has introduced new challenges, exacerbated by severe weather events that have further strained agricultural production.
The combination of climate change effects, including unprecedented droughts, has severely disrupted commodity production, particularly in the agriculture sector.
He said that these disruptions are expected to lead to increased prices for maize, Zambia’s staple food, and drive significant supply and demand imbalances.
Mr. Chisanga points out that the Zambian local market is likely to experience price hikes due to the escalating demand and reduced supply of maize. This situation is further complicated by the country’s dependence on imports to meet domestic needs, which may exacerbate the issue.
The ongoing climate-induced challenges are predicted to continue affecting the maize supply chain, leading to potential shortages and increased instability in key sectors such as food, energy, and manufacturing.
In light of these developments, it may be prudent for commodity-producing countries to consider protective measures to safeguard domestic supplies, he said.
