As the cotton marketing season draws near, the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) has warned cotton farmers to desist from soaking their cotton bales in water, place stones or pumpkins to increase weight as this was a criminal offence.
Speaking at a field day at Arcadia Farm recently, AMA agricultural inspector Mr Tapiwa Mutonda said farmers caught in this act would be charged with false packing and fined.
He said such practices would soil a farmer’s reputation and damage the relationship with cotton companies.“As AMA, we ensure that standards are maintained. Cotton grading is important and starts with a farmer. “Our mandate is to promote fairness and order in the agriculture sector. We are in constant engagement with cotton companies and farmers must be paid according to the grade of their cotton with “A” grade fetching a higher price. https://www.herald.co.zw/cotton-farmers-warned-against-cheating/
