By Chisomo Phiri
BLANTYR-(MaraviPost)-The Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba says the government is tackling the illicit smuggling and hoarding of sugar, citing this practice as a contributing factor to the sugar shortage in the country.
Speaking at a press conference in Lilongwe on Wednesday, Mumba said the government is collaborating with sugar producers Illovo and Salima Sugar to address the problem.
The Minister added that stronger legislation is needed to empower the government to effectively prosecute those involved in these illegal activities.
On his part,Salima Sugar Managing Director, Wester Kossam, affirmed the company’s commitment to ensuring a consistent supply of sugar to the market.
He said the company is expected to produce 22,000 metric tons of sugar in this year’s production season.
