Govt urged to take austerity measures to save economy

Chilufya Tayali

The Zambian Voice says it is necessary for Government to face reality and take austerity measures to save the economy and revive the manufacturing industry.

Executive Director Chilufya Tayali says Government need to review all the trade bilateral and multilateral agreements that it has entered into because Zambia is not benefiting as much as countries with developed agriculture sector and industry.

Mr Tayali says government should consider revising taxes on imported goods, especially those that can be produced locally, such as farm produce,beer, drinks,cereals,plastics,stationary,utensils,fabrics,human hair, among others.

He says that rather than import, Government should entice investment in value agriculture and industry together with the skill that goes with it.

He adds that Government should consider doing this as soon as possible so that these changes reflect in the 2016 budget.

Mr Tayali further states that citizens must be encouraged to buy local products to create attractive market for investment in agriculture and industry.