Zimbabwe plans to boost wheat output to 1.4 million tons by the close of the decade, positioning the nation as a regional exporter after achieving self-sufficiency two years ago. Officials outlined the expansion in their latest agricultural blueprint, targeting growth from current yields of 640,000 tons through expanded irrigation covering nearly half a million hectares.
The southern African country grows soft wheat domestically while importing roughly three-tenths of its hard wheat needs for blending purposes, though some manufacturers already produce bread using entirely local grain. Deputy Minister Vangelis Haritatos said authorities formed an interagency committee to strengthen the value chain, with research underway to develop higher-protein varieties that could eliminate import dependence.
National Foods executive Mike Lashbrook confirmed domestic wheat quality meets commercial standards, noting locally grown grain produces whiter flour preferred by consumers. Production has surged over 500 percent since 2019, with annual consumption standing at 360,000 tons.
The southern African country grows soft wheat domestically while importing roughly three-tenths of its hard wheat needs for blending purposes, though some manufacturers already produce bread using entirely local grain. Deputy Minister Vangelis Haritatos said authorities formed an interagency committee to strengthen the value chain, with research underway to develop higher-protein varieties that could eliminate import dependence.
National Foods executive Mike Lashbrook confirmed domestic wheat quality meets commercial standards, noting locally grown grain produces whiter flour preferred by consumers. Production has surged over 500 percent since 2019, with annual consumption standing at 360,000 tons.
