The Eswatini National Agriculture Union (ENAU) has called on local farmers to organise and increase vegetable production to meet expected demand. This follows the National Agricultural Marketing Board's (NAMBoard) recent announcement of temporary partial restrictions on importing table tomatoes, beetroot, and green pepper. The restrictions aim to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports. ENAU Chief Executive Officer Tammy Dlamini said the announcement presents an opportunity for local vegetable farmers to grow their businesses.
NAMBoard's revised import restrictions require traders to source 80% of tomatoes locally before importing the remaining 20%. This is a significant increase from the previous 25% local sourcing requirement. For beetroot, traders must source at least 15% locally, while the requirement for green pepper is set at 20%. These changes are expected to give local farmers greater access to the domestic market, which has previously been partly supplied through imports.
ENAU's Tammy Dlamini stressed that farmers need to work together and plan their production to ensure no shortages on shop shelves. The union has always encouraged the use of locally produced food instead of relying heavily on imports. Dlamini also warned farmers to prepare for possible drought conditions and find ways to keep production and supply chains running.
According to NAMBoard, farmers registered with the organisation will be prioritised for local sourcing opportunities. However, farmers have been cautioned against planting without proper planning. August planting data showed that tomatoes were already at 145% of estimated monthly demand. NAMBoard expects traders to provide proof that the required produce has been sourced locally before importing the remaining quantity.
The local sourcing requirements will remain in place until local demand exceeds the country's production capacity. NAMBoard will continue monitoring local stock levels and market conditions before making further decisions. This move aims to support local farmers and promote food security in Eswatini.
The restrictions were introduced under Section 6 of the National Agricultural Marketing Board Act No. 13 of 1985. NAMBoard's decision is based on a recent assessment that showed an increase in locally produced tomatoes, green pepper, and beetroot. The board aims to balance local production and imports to ensure a stable food supply.
ENAU and NAMBoard are working together to support local farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The increased demand for locally produced vegetables presents opportunities for farmers to expand their businesses and contribute to Eswatini's food security.
Key points
- Eswatini's vegetable farmers are urged to increase production to meet the expected demand following NAMBoard's revised import restrictions.
