Zambian Vice-President Inonge Wina said on Wednesday that government ministries have been instructed to develop a program aimed at phasing out the importation of meat and meat products.

Early this week, a farmers' body raised concerns over the continued importation of meat and meat products into the country which was "killing" local industry as the imported products were being sold at cheaper prices.

The Zambian vice-president said relevant government ministries have been tasked to work with the farmers and multi-national chain-stores to develop a phased import substitution program by end of January 2020 in order to protect the local industry.

"The joint plan of action will be tabled in cabinet for consideration as a matter of urgency." she said in a statement released by her office.

She said the action plan should work for the Zambian people without losing the global tenets of fair trade.

She further advised local farmers to meet the demand of chain stores so that the chain stores are not compelled to import meat and meat products.