21 Aug 2024

The two-year restriction on importation of horticultural produce that started in 2021 has elevated production levels from 74 000 metric tonnes that was attained in 2020/21 production season to 88 775 metric tonnes in 2022/23 season.

This was said by Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Fidelis Molao in response to a parliamentary question on Monday.

Honourable Molao said restriction on importation of targeted horticultural commodities was an initiative to promote market access for local production.

“The initiative was done with the hope to stimulate and invigorate the projects that were already existing as well as to lure potentially new entrants into the subsector,” he said.

He added that since the commencement of restriction, there had also been growth in exportation of 1 030 tonnes of potatoes to Namibia in 2022 and 3 515 of citrus fruits exported to overseas markets in June and July this year.

Parliament also learnt that the ministry cooperated with some industries for value chains as a primary producer to ensure sustainability of value chains through intensifying capacity development on farmers in support of production.

Jwaneng-Mabutsane MP, Mr Mephato Reatile, had asked how the restrictions had impacted the fruit and vegetable import bill since its implementation.

Mr Reatile also asked if there was an increase in exported fruits and vegetables since the restrictions were implemented.

He further wanted to know if the ministry had plans to set up Public Private Partnerships (PPP) food processing plants to boost fruit and vegetable processing. ENDS