Tobacco Farmers Earn Over US$600 Million Amid Rising Sales
Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry has recorded a significant surge in revenue, with farmers generating US$619.15 million from auction and contract sales this season, according to data from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB).
This marks a 16.61% increase compared to the US$530.95 million recorded during the same period in 2024.
Sales volumes have also risen sharply, reaching 183.03 million kilogrammes, a 21.38% increase from last year’s 150.78 million kilogrammes.
Despite a slight drop in the average price per kilogramme from US$3.52 in 2024 to US$3.38, the higher sales volumes have pushed overall earnings upward.
According to Herald, farmers delivered 2,326,897 bales to auction and contract floors, with 2,261,330 bales successfully sold.
The 2.82% rejection rate suggests a generally high-quality crop, with prices ranging between US$6.30 per kilogramme at the highest and US$0.10 per kilogramme at the lowest.
TIMB spokesperson Ms. Chelesani Moyo-Tsarwe praised farmers for their dedication and resilience, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s presence in the global tobacco market.
“Crossing the US$600 million mark is an impressive achievement. It reflects the commitment of our farmers and the continued interest from international buyers,” she said.
Her sentiments were echoed in TIMB’s latest industry report, which highlighted how increasing sales volumes and global demand have contributed to Zimbabwe’s strong tobacco export position.
Meanwhile, farmers have been urged to comply with stalk destruction deadlines, a key measure in preventing disease spread among tobacco crops.
Herald further reports that the rise in earnings underscores Zimbabwe’s strong presence in the global tobacco market and its significant contribution to the country’s foreign currency.
