According to the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZAMSTATS) […]

 According to the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZAMSTATS) April report, fish prices have declined in April, with latest data showing a 4.34% drop in buka buka from K129 per kilogram in March to K123, while fresh kapenta recorded a sharper 9.44% reduction from K55 to K49 per 400 gram. Aquaculture consultant and Managing Director of Mukasa Fish Farm, Royd Mukonda has told Zambian Business TimesZBT that the price movements are closely linked to seasonal fishing bans and trader behaviour that often distorts normal supply patterns.

 “While the drop appears to signal improved affordability for consumers, market dynamics suggest the shift is largely driven by supply surges following months of artificially tight conditions,” said Mukonda.

He explained that during the annual fishing closure period between December and February, traders deliberately withhold stock and push prices upward in anticipation of reduced supply.

“During the fishing ban, traders tend to hold back stock and sell at higher prices because there is no fishing activity, creating pressure on demand,” said Mukonda.

He stated that once the fishing season reopens, large volumes of fish are suddenly released onto the market, resulting in oversupply and a rapid decline in prices as traders rush to clear perishable stock.

Mukonda added that regional trade dynamics are also contributing to the supply surge, particularly as fish traders increasingly divert supplies into Zambia due to instability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, which has made cross-border trade more risky.

“Once suppliers realise prices are favorable in Zambia, they redirect large quantities into the local market, effectively flooding it and forcing prices downward.

Mukonda, cautioned that the current price decline may be temporary, as fish prices are likely to
gradually rise again later in the year as supply stabilises and the market moves closer to another
fishing restriction cycle.

Article by Phillip Sinkala