The small time entrepreneurs who have been selling mophane worm or Phane to neighbouring countries have been told that they need export permits to reach these markets.
The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism explains in a press release that it is aware that this is a Phane season and there is a trade between Botswana and neigbouring countries especially to South Africa.
“The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism through the Department of Forestry and Range Resources (DFRR) wishes to inform the general public that subject to the provisions of Agricultural Resources Conservation Act (Cap 35: 06) and its associate regulations, any person who wishes to deal in or export any veld product must obtain a dealer and or export permit for that product,” the ministry says.
The ministry adds it has received reports of some Batswana been prevented from entering some neighbouring countries to sell Phane.
“This has emanated from not been able to produce appropriate documentation and licenses to be able to trade in that country.”
“The ministry wishes to advise the general public and Phane producers in particular that DFRR will continue to issue dealers and exports permits to facilitate Phane trade both locally and with neighbouring countries.” Exporters are therefore advised to obtain the appropriate documentation and licenses for them to trade in the different countries as per the requirements for those countries.
Potential exporters are further advised to contact the relative Country Embassies to obtain information on licenses and or permits which will allow them to trade in the different neighbouring countries, says the ministry.