津巴布韦推新农业战略提升高需求作物本土产量

Core Viewpoint - The Zimbabwean government is accelerating efforts to enhance local production of high-demand crops such as rice, pasta, and potatoes to address the shift in consumer preferences from maize to diversified staple foods [1] Group 1: Agricultural Strategy - The "Agricultural Food Systems and Rural Transformation Strategy (2026-2030)" aims to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports [1] - The strategy focuses on strengthening value chains and alleviating foreign exchange pressure to enhance food security and industrial competitiveness [1] Group 2: Import Trends - Between 2019 and 2024, imports of pasta and rice increased by 362% and 237% respectively, while maize imports decreased by 147% compared to 2020, indicating a rapid change in dietary needs [1] - Rice has emerged as the fourth most important starch food after maize, wheat, and traditional grains [1] Group 3: Production Goals - The government plans to increase traditional grain production to 797,000 tons by 2030, thereby reducing import expenditures [1] - The strategy includes promoting traditional grains, enhancing ecological zoning for planting, and expanding irrigation systems [1] - The introduction of the New Rice for Africa (NERICA) variety in 2004 will support the development of drought-resistant rice cultivation [1]