Farmers earn US$111m

This is an increase from the 26 million kilogrammes worth US$96 million which were sold during the same period last year.

According to the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board 423 424 bales of tobacco were laid since the opening of the selling season.
Of these 391 657 were sold while 26 376 were rejected.

Bales are rejected for several reasons such as being mouldy, oversize, underweight, too dry or wet and mouldy.

Tobacco Sales Floor managing director Mr James Mutambanesango said rejected bales were returned to farmers who have to rebale and bring them later for sale.
“Farmers can also get assistance from the auction floors trained personnel in handling who will sort the rejected bales in the farmer’s presence for a small fee,” he said.