Grain levy row: GMAZ says Musarara speaks for industry
THE Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) has defended its national chairman, Tafadzwa Musarara, saying his opposition to recently introduced grain import levies reflects the collective position of the milling industry rather than personal views. The association’s remarks come amid growing debate over its legal challenge against Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025, which introduced levies […] The post Grain levy row: GMAZ says Musarara speaks for industry appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.
Black News 
THE Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) has defended its national chairman, Tafadzwa Musarara, saying his opposition to recently introduced grain import levies reflects the collective position of the milling industry rather than personal views.
The association’s remarks come amid growing debate over its legal challenge against Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025, which introduced levies on imported grains and oilseeds as part of government efforts to promote local agricultural production and reduce dependence on imports.
In a statement, GMAZ National Executive Committee spokesperson Adolf Chirimuuta said Musarara had acted with the full backing of the association’s members.
“The Chairman of the Board, Dr Tafadzwa Musarara, has at all times acted on behalf of the Association’s membership and under a full mandate derived from extensive consultations conducted across the membership base,” said Chirimuuta.
He said the association’s position on the levy regime was informed by consultations with members across the country.
“The position taken and actions undertaken by the Chairman reflect the collective views and resolutions of members nationwide. GMAZ solidly stands behind our Chairman,” he said.
The association recently approached the High Court seeking the nullification of SI 87 of 2025, arguing that the levies imposed on imported wheat, maize, soya beans and other products could increase production costs and ultimately raise the prices of basic food commodities.
GMAZ also contends that the regulations were introduced without sufficient consultation with affected stakeholders and that some provisions may exceed powers provided for under the Agricultural Marketing Authority Act.
Government has defended the levy regime, saying it is intended to support local farmers, strengthen domestic value chains and encourage self-sufficiency in agricultural production.
The dispute has attracted significant public attention, with some critics questioning the milling industry’s opposition to measures designed to protect local producers. However, GMAZ maintains that its concerns are centred on the potential impact on consumers and the broader food value chain.
The legal challenge suffered an initial setback after the High Court ruled that the matter was not urgent, meaning the case will proceed through the normal court process.
With the matter now before the courts, the association says it will not be drawn into further public debate on the merits of the case.
“As the matter in question is currently before the courts, GMAZ considers it inappropriate to comment further at this stage. The Association respects the judicial process and will allow the courts to determine the issues before them without interference or prejudice,” said Chirimuuta.
The outcome of the case is expected to be closely watched by millers, farmers, consumers and policymakers because of its potential implications for food prices, grain imports and Zimbabwe’s agricultural policy direction.
The post Grain levy row: GMAZ says Musarara speaks for industry appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.
