The current agricultural season in Nampula province is proving to be promising, with significant production in the districts with the greatest potential, which is guaranteeing the availability of products for the domestic market and boosting exports. The information was provided by Alfredo Nampuio, director-general of the Mozambique Cereals Institute (ICM), as part of a monitoring visit to the region’s main production centres.
According to Nampuio, around 21 million tonnes of various agricultural products are expected to be sold, of which around 910,300 tonnes will be sold by partners with whom ICM has memoranda of understanding.
Among the products in the spotlight are cereals and pulses, with special emphasis on cowpeas, whose demand in markets such as India and Saudi Arabia could result in the export of up to 200,000 tonnes.
‘The production recorded in the districts we visited is satisfactory, which allows us to ensure efficient commercialisation. The milling industries have sufficient stocks of maize to guarantee their operation until the start of the next campaign, ensuring the continuity of economic activity,’ he said.
The harvest is already underway, helping to strengthen food security in Nampula and other provinces in the country. During his visit to the Nacala industrial zone, Nampuio noted that there were considerable stocks in the main warehouses, including those left over from the previous campaign, which should be introduced to the market in the next few days.
With regard to exports, the ICM director-general emphasised that licensed companies, especially those dedicated to the pigeonpea trade, can export unlimited quantities, as long as they comply with the requirements set by the competent authorities.
‘We encourage all operators in the sector to take advantage of this outlet opportunity. Agriculture plays a crucial role in strengthening the national economy,’ he emphasised, adding that unrestricted exports to India represent a direct route to increased income for local producers.
However, he warned of the need for strict compliance with legal procedures, namely registration, certification of origin and production tracing, in order to ensure compliance with food safety standards and statistical control mechanisms.
Source: Jornal Noticias
