Mozambique and China advance cassava value chain
A meeting in Shenzhen mapped implementation of a memorandum of understanding signed in Maputo to boost cultivation, processing, and commercialization.
Mozambique and China have entered a new phase of cassava value chain development following a meeting in Shenzhen between the Mozambique Chamber of Commerce (CCMI) and Chinese partners. This follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed in Maputo on October 1.
The initiative, attended by CCMI Board Chairperson Thani Cabir and Executive Director Fileu Pave, will initially target the Gaza and Inhambane provinces. Local cooperatives, business associations, and the Longrun Group will engage in cassava cultivation, processing, and commercialization, with Longrun Group facilitating technology transfer and employment.
China annually imports four million tonnes of cassava chips, eight million tonnes of starch, 1.5 million tonnes of unprocessed cassava, and over 50,000 tonnes of flour, presenting a significant export opportunity for Mozambique. This sustained demand aims to diversify agricultural exports, boost domestic value addition, and uplift rural smallholders and agro-industrial SMEs.
Why it mattersMozambican farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises in Gaza and Inhambane provinces will benefit from increased opportunities in cassava cultivation, processing, and commercialization due to Chinese demand.