ZCSA warns farmers against buying fertilizer from unregistered manufacturers (Video)

As Zambia prepares for the upcoming farming season, the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has advised farmers to purchase fertilizer from recognised and reputable outlets to ensure good crop yields.

Brian Hatyoka, ZCSA Acting Manager for Communications and Public Relations, said that farmers should buy familiar or traceable fertilizer brands linked to registered manufacturers.

Speaking at the 96th Agricultural and Commercial Cooperative Show in Lusaka, Hatyoka highlighted the importance of purchasing regulated fertilizer that meets all compulsory standards.

“If you see fertilizer which is suspicious or non-compliant, report to any nearest ZCSA office in provincial centres or border offices or at the Head Office in Lusaka for analysis and enforcement actions,” Hatyoka stressed.

He urged farmers to report cases of illegal repackaging and mixing of fertilizer with sand or other unknown substances.

Additionally, any strange fertilizer brands that does not comply with packaging, labeling, and other requirements should be reported to ZCSA for enforcement action.

Hatyoka warned that substandard fertilizer can reduce crop yields and advised farmers to avoid such products.

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He reiterated that ZCSA regulates locally manufactured and imported products covered by compulsory standards for public safety, health, consumer, and environmental protection.

This regulation is enforced through product inspection, market surveillance and public education.

Non-compliant products are typically seized and withdrawn from the market to protect the public and the environment.

ZCSA administers compulsory standards such as ZS 327, ZS 431, ZS 605, ZS 606, and ZS 607 for various fertilizer types.

Hatyoka reaffirmed that the Agency would ensure all fertilizer products under these standards meet the necessary requirements for consumer and environmental protection.

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