KARIBA-Fishery concern cooperatives here have said that the import of cheap kapenta from Mozambique following the liberalisation of the market is negatively impacting the local fish industry. Fishery cooperatives said the liberation of the economy after the formation of the inclusive government by Finance Minister Tendai Biti had resulted in an upsurge in cheap dried kapenta imports. Biti deliberately took the decision to improve product availability following years of commodity shortage in the country, which saw some shops operating with empty shelves.
Our business has been dealt a big blow given that cheap imported kapenta is finding its way into Zimbabwe, said Daniel Matimba, a manager of a fishing cooperative.
Production costs such as electricity and fuel are heavily subsidised in countries such as Mozambique, compared to Zimbabwe where such commodities are overpriced.
Matimba urged the government to take some measures to protect the local fishing industry.
A kilogramme of imported dried kapenta costs up to US$2, 60, compared to local produce which sells for US$3-US$4 a kilogramme.
The cooperatives said the local industry has the capacity to meet local demand if it is protected through enactment of legislation that limits imports.
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