Malawi Exports Only 2% of Rice Despite Regional Demand, Study Finds
What happened
Research findings presented in Lilongwe indicate that Malawi exports only two percent of its rice, despite regional demand for varieties such as kilombero and super faya. The study, conducted by the MwAPATA Institute, attributes this low international trade to productivity issues, poor agronomics, and underdeveloped seed systems in the country. The Institute recommended five policy directions, including enhancing extension services and improving the seed system.
From mwnation.com
Why it matters
The challenges identified include limited certified seed use, which currently affects only 30 percent of farmer organizations, and high input costs, particularly fertilizer. The seed system is highly centralized, with most multiplication handled by the Rice Seed Association at Liwonde.
From mwnation.com
Who's involved
- MalawiSovereign state whose agricultural sector is the subject of the research findings.
- MwAPATA InstituteAgricultural think-tank that conducted the study and presented its findings in Lilongwe.
- LilongweCapital city of Malawi where the research findings were unveiled.
- SalimaLocation where seed multiplication is taking place.
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The entities involved
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Malawi
sovereign state in Africa
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Lilongwe
capital of Malawi
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MwAPATA Institute
facility in Lilongwe, Malawi
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