The government is exploring measures to increase import tariffs on food products, as well as ceramic products—particularly roof tiles—with the aim of boosting local production. The information was disclosed by the Secretary of State for Trade, António Grispos.
Speaking during a visit to the Safira Mozambique ceramics factory, the official explained that the government is considering imposing a surcharge, or even raising the rate from 7.5% to 20%, as well as implementing a licensing system for importers.
“We can take measures to boost local activity or production and, if possible, eliminate our imports. This could involve a surcharge or raising the rate from 7.5% to 20%, which is the limit,” he explained.
The Secretary of State for Trade also criticized the country’s reliance on foreign sources to supply the domestic market, pledging a thorough review of these imports. “Mozambique imports toothpicks, and even water. Therefore, all these issues will undergo a thorough review by the import advisory committee,” he reiterated.
António Grispos also stated that the government is in a position to make the necessary decisions, taking into account the legal and financial implications without harming domestic producers, and noted that an assessment will be conducted to determine whether tax incentives in a special economic zone constitute a solution for the sustainability of ceramic product factories in the country.
“We will make a decision now on this issue of ceramics, but we are also already looking into the issue of imports of bread, chicken, and other basic products on which Mozambique depends,” he said.
Located in the district of Moamba, Maputo Province, Safira Mozambique Cerâmica was inaugurated in September 2025 by former President Filipe Nyusi and is the result of a $140 million investment. The factory belongs to the Chinese Wang-Kand Group and employs 800 local workers.
The factory occupies an area of 3,000 hectares and has a daily production capacity of 1,000 square meters of roof tiles and wall tiles. It was built as part of the “Industrialize Mozambique” program and aims primarily to reduce the country’s dependence on imported construction materials.
