Zimbabwe Govt Denies Widespread Miller Shutdown, Cites 'Elitist Interests'

Zimbabwe's government has forcefully rejected assertions that major milling companies have ceased operations due to a lack of maize. The Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development accused unnamed "elitist interests" of manufacturing a national grain crisis to advocate for higher grain imports.

The ministry stated it had verified directly with Blue Ribbon Industries and 23 other named millers that their operations in Bulawayo remain active. This contradicts a circular attributed to the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe's Southern Region chairperson, which claimed local maize supplies had "significantly declined," forcing millers to halt production.

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That information does not support the false narrative being circulated. Blue Ribbon and the 23 named millers have not shut down their milling operations.

Government officials pointed to official production figures, indicating a 17.1 percent increase in maize output from 2025 to 2026, resulting in a projected strategic grain surplus. Grain Marketing Board stocks were also reported to be substantial. While acknowledging localized supply and quality issues, such as insect infestation in some grain stocks, the ministry insisted these should not be amplified into claims of a national shortage.

The dispute highlights an ongoing tension between the government and grain millers concerning policies designed to protect domestic production. Specifically, millers oppose the grain import levy framework, arguing it increases costs. The government maintains these levies are crucial for supporting local farmers and reducing reliance on imports. The controversy gained traction partly due to a past shutdown of Blue Ribbon's Bulawayo plant in September 2025 during a previous maize shortage.

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Government will not permit isolated operational challenges to be weaponised to create a false national grain crisis.