Maize sector

Zimbabwe's maize sector is a fundamental economic pillar, contributing approximately 14% to the national GDP and providing livelihood support to over 70% of the rural population. The crop generates an estimated $2.5 billion in annual economic activity through its integrated value chain.

The maize processing industry creates substantial value addition through production of mealie meal, animal feed, and industrial starches. This vertical integration attracts significant foreign direct investment in milling facilities and storage infrastructure, enhancing sector profitability and employment generation.

Small-scale farmers, producing 80% of Zimbabwe's maize, drive rural economic growth through employment creation and support of auxiliary industries including seed suppliers, agrochemical manufacturers, and transportation services. This multiplier effect strengthens rural economies and supports urbanization through food security.

Zimbabwe's agricultural transformation from a surplus corn producer to a net importer stems from two major factors: the early 2000s land reform policies that disrupted productivity, and ongoing climate change impacts. For MY 2024/25, Zimbabwe requires approximately 1.5 MMT of corn imports - 1.0 MMT for local demand plus 0.5 MMT to maintain mandatory strategic reserves, highlighting the significant shift in the country's food security and economic position over the past two decades.

Production faces a severe 60% decline in 2024/25 due to El Niño-induced drought conditions, necessitating approximately 1.0 million metric tons of imports. The sector struggles with macro-economic challenges, sub-optimal weather patterns, and high input costs.

Regional drought affecting South Africa, Zambia, and Malawi has complicated Zimbabwe's import strategies, forcing expansion to global markets. While GE maize imports are permitted, quarantine requirements before milling add operational costs and supply chain complexity.