Skyrocketing Freight Costs Challenge Zimbabwe's Horticulture Revival
Kuminda, a firm aggregating produce from 5,000 small-scale farmers in Harare, faces escalating freight costs due to the Iran war, impacting its sugar snap peas exports to Europe. The situation threatens the recovery of Zimbabwe's horticulture sector, despite last year's record exports following decades of rebuilding.
In Harare, Zimbabwe, Kuminda, a company working with 5,000 small-scale farmers, grapples with rising freight costs amidst its sugar snap peas export season. These soaring costs, driven by the Iran war, threaten the fledgling recovery of Zimbabwe's horticulture sector.
Export costs have risen to $3.80 per kg, a staggering increase from $2 to $2.20 last year, according to Kuminda CEO Clarence Mwale. He notes that flight disruptions in the United Arab Emirates also complicate the export landscape, potentially derailing the industry's growth.
Zimbabwe's horticulture, which includes major exports to European markets, faces stiff competition from Egypt and Kenya. The Horticultural Development Council urges governmental support to alleviate these rising costs, advocating for tax relief and efforts to reduce fuel levies.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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