Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Comores Infos
Published on 2024-04-08 09:50:23
In a controversial move, the Comorian government has imposed restrictions on the export of agricultural products between the islands, a decision that raises concerns about its impact on the local economy and the country’s food autonomy. This policy, described as absurd by industry stakeholders, limits farmers from Mohéli, Anjouan, and Grande Comore to only sell their products within their respective islands, thereby reducing their potential market and severely hindering national economic development.
Interviewed by our colleagues at Alfajr, prominent Comorian farmer Fayçal Bianrifi stated that he particularly feels the weight of this decision. With a loss of 4.5 million Comorian francs (KMF) during the holy month of Ramadan, these restrictions prevented him from capitalizing on the sale of green bananas, a highly demanded product during that period. Forced to sell his products at a lower price in Mohéli, he suffered significant financial losses that could have been avoided without these restrictive export measures.
By limiting export restrictions to inter-island trade, the restrictions seem to contradict the principles of supporting local production and food autonomy. By preventing producers like Bianrifi from freely entering the domestic market, the government not only hampers the growth potential of agricultural investments but also commits what many consider an “economic and social crime.”
Instead of imposing barriers within the country, it would be more prudent to regulate imports of foreign agricultural products. This approach would protect and encourage local producers, allowing for the expansion of production and increased profits, all while moving towards true food autonomy.
The government’s decision reflects a lack of understanding of local economic dynamics and the real needs of Comorian farmers. For a country like the Comoros, where agriculture plays a crucial role in the economy, adopting policies that facilitate the free flow of agricultural goods between the islands is imperative. Only a policy that supports local agriculture, free from internal restrictions, can guarantee food security and sustainable economic development in the Comoros.
ANTUF Chaharane
Read the original article(French) on Comores Infos
