Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has welcomed the decision by Zimbabwe to lift its ban on maize and grain imports, calling the move a significant step towards bolstering food security and strengthening economic collaboration across the region.

The licence change, announced under Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025, reopens one of South Africa’s key regional export markets—paving the way for both white and yellow maize to flow once again.

Steenhuisen described the development as “extremely welcome,” saying it underscores the shared responsibility of regional nations in maintaining food sufficiency. He pointed out that while trade restrictions may sometimes aim to protect domestic producers, they often distort markets and ultimately disadvantage consumers.

The minister argued that the removal of Zimbabwe’s import ban holds major implications for consumer welfare and the stability of food systems across the Southern African region—particularly within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

By allowing freer movement of maize—especially white maize, which remains a staple for many across the continent—Steenhuisen noted that the decision sends a strong signal of confidence to agribusinesses and exporters. He added that this encourages investment, supports expanded production, promotes regional integration, and ensures that surplus-producing countries are in a better position to assist neighbouring states.

He further emphasised that the Department of Agriculture remains committed to working alongside regional partners to champion fair, open, and efficient agricultural trade—principles he described as foundational to sustainable growth and poverty alleviation in Southern Africa.