Mozambique’s vegetable exports increased by 45% in 2024, totaling $130 million, up from $90.2 million in 2023. The growth is due to normal production resumption after adverse weather. Key markets include bananas sold to South Africa. Minister Correia notes the importance of social peace for production and projects a 5% output rise, but highlights challenges like agricultural competitiveness and technology gaps.
Mozambique’s vegetable exports surged by nearly 45% in the first three quarters of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. A central bank report revealed that by September end, exports totaled $130 million (£104 million), rising from $90.2 million (£72 million) the previous year. This increase is attributed to the return to normal production and distribution after adverse weather events in 2023, as highlighted by the Bank of Mozambique.
The leading export product, bananas, generated $29.4 million (£23.5 million) during this period, primarily sold to neighboring South Africa, compared to $22.4 million (£17.9 million) in 2023. Last November, Celso Correia, the then Minister of Agriculture, expressed a positive outlook for the agricultural sector, anticipating a 5% increase in output due to favorable rainfall.
Correia emphasized the importance of “social peace” amidst ongoing protests from contentious elections, stating that it is crucial for uninterrupted production and family income stability. He projected a 5% rise in production for the upcoming 2024/2025 season, despite delayed sowing in northern and central regions due to earlier rainfall in southern Mozambique.
He also addressed the challenges facing agricultural competitiveness, such as border contraband and the need for enhanced product quality. Additionally, Correia pointed out Mozambique’s technological limitations in greenhouse farming, stating: “We still lack sufficient technology for off-season greenhouse production, unlike South Africa.”
Mozambique has demonstrated resilience in its agricultural sector, with vegetable exports showing significant growth despite past weather disruptions. Key factors contributing to this success include a return to stable production practices and favorable environmental conditions. However, challenges such as social unrest and technological gaps in agricultural practices remain to be addressed for sustained progress.
Original Source: www.freightnews.co.za
