Tax on Maize Imports Suspended, Drought Response Plan Approved

As part of ongoing efforts to increase food security Government has suspended taxes on maize imports. It is hoped that the move will reduce costs and help increase reserves.

According to Chief Government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa the decision was take at this week’s cabinet meeting, with the Ministry of Finance tasked with introducing a Statutory Instrument (SI) to this effect.

During the same meeting cabinet also approved a drought response plan to further mitigate the devastating impacts. The Public Financial Management Reform Strategy for 2024 to 2027 to enhance public sector governance, transparency in fiscal operations and reforms for better service delivery was also approved. 

Updating media on the outcomes from the latest cabinet meeting Mr Mweetwa indicated that President Hichilema has directed that Lubambe Copper Mine and Kasenseli Gold Mine be operationalised immediately as part of efforts to increase production and thereby generate additional jobs and revenues for the country. Such initiatives are also considered important in helping to strengthen the kwacha.