The Government lifted the suspension on maize exports on 21 April. Shipments were halted in mid-October to ensure sufficient supplies until the 2017 harvest, which is about to begin, and ease price pressure due to the heightened export demand from neighbouring countries. The recent suspension of the ban follows expectations of an above-average output this year, as a result of overall favourable weather conditions during the season and continued Government support measures, including subsidised access to inputs through the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP). This year’s expected increase in production follows a near-average output in 2016.