FRA READY FOR 2026 CROP MARKETING SEASON

FRA READY FOR 2026 CROP MARKETING SEASON

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) says it is ready to begin the 2026 Crop Marketing Season after completing preparations across the country. FRA Board Chairperson Suresh Desai announced today that the Agency will start buying maize once it reaches the required moisture content of 12.5 percent or below, with Zambia expected to harvest a record 5.1 million metric tonnes of maize this season.

Mr. Desai said the projected harvest is the highest ever recorded in Zambia and is expected to improve food security and create a surplus for export. He said the Agency has set up 1,749 buying depots and recruited buying depot clerks and security guards to support the exercise.

He added that the Agency is consulting stakeholders on the 2026 buying prices for maize and rice, which will be announced later. He also said farmers will be paid through a digital payment system and encouraged them to provide their bank or mobile money account details to FRA district offices.