By: Fatou Krubally
The National Assembly has approved a new clause in the National Food Security Corporation Bill, 2025, mandating private importers of certain food products to procure part of their imports from the Corporation.
The amendment, introduced by Hon. Sainey Jawara, Member for Lower Saloum, required that any private sector importer bringing in products similar to those manufactured by the National Food Security Corporation purchase at least 10 percent of their imported quantity locally.
The provision was inserted as Clause 33 immediately after Clause 32 under Part VI of the Bill, which deals with the marketing of core agribusiness products.
The clause also empowers the minister responsible for agriculture to issue regulations prescribing the modalities for implementing the mandatory off-take arrangement.
The motion to insert the clause was seconded by the Member for Lower Fulladu West and was subsequently approved by the Assembly in line with parliamentary procedures.
Supporters of the measure said it would strengthen the Corporation’s market presence and provide guaranteed demand for domestically produced food commodities.
They argued during deliberations that the move would protect local production, enhance revenue for the Corporation and contribute to national food security.
One member said the mandatory off-take arrangement would ensure that local production is not undermined by imports and would strengthen the financial base of the Corporation.