Grain Traders Association of Zambia has commended the government for removing restrictions on the export of maize grain, maize products and mealie meal.

In an interview with ZANIS, Association Executive Secretary, Yotam Mkandawire, said the removal of restrictions would impact positively on the country’s economy.

Mr Mkandawire said more farmers and traders will now be able to sell their products within and outside the country, thereby, raising more revenue.

“I must say this is a good move by the government and as an association, we welcome it,”Mr Mkandawire said.

He added that the development would also lead to employment creation, and enable more players to participate in trade and economy.

Mr Mkandawire further disclosed that in the last five months, grain traders were only given a quota of 7,000 metric tonnes of maize and 5, 600 metric tonnes of mealie meal to export per month.

He explained that once the allocation finished, traders were made to wait for the next quota.

“With the quota allocation, traders were delayed because of the procedures, but with this removal of restrictions, transactions will be faster,”   Mr Mkandawire noted.