The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has announced that it will buy a 50kg bag of maize at K340 for the 2025 marketing season, a slight increase from last year’s price of K330.
FRA Board Chairperson Suresh Desai says the new price was set after consultations with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka today, Mr. Desai also disclosed that paddy rice will be purchased at K300 per 40kg bag.
Dr. Desai revealed that the FRA aims to procure 543,000 metric tonnes of maize and 10,000 metric tonnes of rice in the first phase, with a possibility of increasing the quantities if the targets are achieved.
“Maize purchases will be made on a cash basis and via mobile money at the agency’s 1,428 satellite depots across the country,” said Mr. Desai.
He also reiterated sell their produce to any buyer of their choice, as the government will not place any restrictions on private sales.
By Margaret Mwanza
