Data drives decision-making in agric

Word From The Market

Tina Nleya

IN agriculture, information is as valuable as the crops we grow and the livestock we rear.

Data drives decision-making, helps forecast production trends and ensures policies are aligned with realities on the ground.

This is why the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA), through Statutory Instrument (SI) 129 of 2017 and SI 147 of 2012, requires all players in the agro sector to submit returns.These submissions provide crucial insights into Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape, allowing for better planning, investment and growth in the sector.

However, despite the importance of these returns, compliance levels remain a challenge.

Many players either submit incomplete data, delay reporting or fail to submit at all.

This not only affects AMA’s ability to track activity within the sector but also limits the effectiveness of policy interventions.

This article explores why submitting returns is crucial, how it benefits the sector and why compliance should be seen as a shared responsibility rather than just a legal obligation.

1. Why returns are important

The submission of returns is more than just a regulatory requirement — it is a critical tool for national planning and economic development. Here is how:

1. a) Tracking agricultural activity and trends

Agriculture is the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, contributing significantly to gross domestic product (GDP) and employment. By submitting returns, agro-processors, traders, contractors and other stakeholders help AMA track production volumes, trade flows and market trends.This allows for informed decision-making and timely intervention to support farmers and the agro-industry.

1. b) Strengthening market stability

When AMA has access to accurate data, it can identify supply and demand gaps, preventing market imbalances that could lead to price volatility. For instance, if returns show surplus maize, AMA can facilitate exports or advise the Government to increase grain storage capacity.

Similarly, if a shortage of wheat is detected, strategic imports can be planned in advance to avoid bread shortages.

1. c) Enhancing access to finance for farmers and agribusinesses

Financial institutions rely on accurate agricultural data to assess risks and opportunities in the sector.When market players submit their returns, they provide banks and investors with the necessary information to develop targeted financial products, loans and investment strategies.This means better financing options for farmers, agro-dealers and processors.

1. d) Informing Government policy and development programmes

Policy formulation is most effective when backed by real-time data.

The Government depends on agricultural returns to design policies that support farmers, improve productivity and enhance food security.Without reliable data, policies may be based on outdated or inaccurate assumptions, leading to ineffective interventions.

2. The role of AMA in ensuring compliance

As the regulatory authority overseeing Zimbabwe’s agricultural markets, AMA plays a crucial role in ensuring that all players in the agro sector comply with submitting returns.

Here is how AMA is working to improve compliance:

1. a) Awareness and capacity-building

AMA is actively engaging stakeholders through workshops, training sessions and direct outreach to ensure that every agro sector participant understands their responsibility in submitting returns.

Many non-compliant players are simply unaware of the process or its benefits.

However, AMA is bridging this knowledge gap.

1. b) Digitalisation for easier submission

To make the process more efficient, submission of returns can be done online by agro-processors, contractors and traders.

This will reduce paperwork, minimise delays and improve accuracy.

1. c) Strengthening enforcement measures

While the goal is to encourage voluntary compliance, AMA also has enforcement mechanisms in place.Players who consistently fail to submit returns may face penalties, licence reviews or other regulatory measures.

However, AMA prioritises engagement and support over punishment, recognising that collaboration yields better results than enforcement alone.

3. How can submitting returns

benefit your business?

Many players in the agro sector view submission of returns as a regulatory burden, but in reality, it offers direct benefits to businesses.

Here is why:

1. a) Visibility and credibility

Companies that consistently submit accurate returns demonstrate transparency and professionalism, making them more attractive to investors, financiers and business partners.

1. b) Better policy support

If AMA and the Government have accurate data on sector challenges — such as high input costs, logistical barriers or export restrictions — they can develop tailored policies to address these issues.This means a better business environment for everyone.

1. c) Risk mitigation

Data-driven decision-making helps businesses anticipate market changes, avoid losses and seize emerging opportunities.

Whether you are a contract farmer, a processor or an exporter, staying informed through data submission benefits your operations.

4. Building a data-driven

agriculture sector

Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector has immense potential but unlocking this potential requires accurate data, timely reporting and full compliance with submitted returns.

AMA remains committed to supporting all stakeholders in fulfilling this obligation, ensuring that the data collected translates into actionable insights and impactful policies.

We encourage all agro sector players to prioritise the submission of returns — not just as a legal requirement, but as a contribution to the growth and development of Zimbabwe’s agriculture.

By working together, we can create a transparent, well-regulated and thriving agriculture sector that benefits farmers, processors, consumers and the entire economy.

Tina Nleya is AMA’s marketing and public relations manager. She can be contacted on email: [email protected]. Word From The Market is a column produced by AMA to promote market-driven production.