Clashes over Malawian maize trade ban

While maize traders have cried foul, the move is also in confrontation with the pronouncement from WB President Robert Zoellick urging countries to open borders and lift any export bans in the face of the worsening problem of rising food prices.

“We are urging countries not to use export bans. These controls encourage hoarding, drive up prices and hurt the poorest around the world who are struggling to feed themselves,” said Zoellick.

In an attempt to control the country's food security situation, Malawi's Industry and Trade Minister Henry Mussa released a statement last week saying: “The ministry of Industry and Trade wish to inform the business community and the general public that government has with immediate effect put restrictions on the importation and exportation of maize products.”

Mussa said the restrictions have been made pursuant to the country's Control of Goods Act which empower him as the Industry and Trade minister to take necessary measures to control the import into or export from the country.

“The restrictions have been imposed to ensure food security in the country. Any person found in breach of this restriction will be prosecuted,” he warned.

Annually Malawi requires 2.2 million metric tonnes to feed its people.

The first round maize harvest estimate figures, released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, indicate that Malawi is expected to register a 3.4% tumble from 3.4 million metric tonnes harvested last year to 3.28 million metric tonnes.

Based on these estimates Mussa said they will not allow any trader to take out maize at this time of the year.

Maize Merchants in the country have accused government of stifling trade by issuing a total maize export ban.

“The move is retrogressive and what it has shown is that while other countries are going forward in trade we are still sticking to failed policies,” protested one Blantyre-based trader who opted for anonymity.

Mzuzu maize merchant Charles Mkandawire, who exports his grain to Tanzania, said he already has a lot invested, having stockpiled close to 5000 metric tonnes.

“We bring the much needed forex when we export and it is an open secret that our economy cannot operate without the availability of foreign currency,” said Mkandawire.