Mozambique set a new record in rice imports in 2024, purchasing US$441 million worth of rice, a 38.8 percent increase from 2023. This trend reflects decreased local production due to climatic and structural challenges. The agricultural sector’s struggles raise concerns about food security, urging the need for significant government investment to bolster production and reduce dependency on imports.
In 2024, Mozambique achieved a record high in rice imports, underscoring its increasing dependence on foreign sources to meet essential food requirements. The Bank of Mozambique’s annual report indicated that the country spent US$441 million on rice imports, marking a 38.8 percent rise from the US$317.7 million spent in 2023. This surge reflects heightened domestic consumption and a decline in local rice production resulting from various structural and climatic challenges affecting the agricultural sector.
Rice production in 2023 fell significantly, decreasing by 34 percent to 161,800 tons compared to the previous year, as reported by the National Institute of Statistics (INE). The INE’s analysis pointed to adverse climatic factors, including floods and droughts, coupled with inadequate investment in irrigation systems, high-quality seeds, and essential agricultural support services. Consequently, Mozambique has increasingly turned to rice imports to offset these production deficits, a practice that could expose the nation to global food price volatility and increase food insecurity among its poorest citizens.
Furthermore, maize production also experienced a decline of 11 percent in 2023, dropping from 2.38 million tonnes to 2.12 million tonnes. Although this decrease is concerning, it is less alarming given that 2022 was a record year for maize output. Conversely, rice production hit a five-year low during the same period, creating additional worries about food supply stability. Significant decreases were also noted in the production of sorghum and millet, which fell by 15 percent and 32 percent, respectively.
These concerning agricultural trends, coupled with unprecedented rice imports, highlight the vulnerability of Mozambique’s food supply system. With agriculture being a critical part of the economy, representing over 20 percent of the GDP and employing a majority of the population, it is crucial for the government to enhance investments in this sector. The February report by the Inclusive Growth in Mozambique development programme highlighted that strategic improvements in agricultural practices could not only reduce foreign dependency but also foster economic growth, job creation, and enhanced food security for millions of citizens.
In summary, Mozambique’s record-setting rice imports in 2024 signal a growing reliance on foreign food sources due to declining domestic agricultural production influenced by climatic challenges. The significant decrease in both rice and other key crops raises important questions about food security for the population. Addressing these challenges through increased government investment in agriculture could potentially safeguard the economy and improve living standards for Mozambicans.
Original Source: macaonews.org
