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According to latest figures provided by the tobacco industry regulator, at least 15 755 new farmers have registered to grow the crop. Officials said registration was still on-going.
Of the total number of farmers registered, A1 farmers make up the bulk of the golden leaf farmers at 18 972, followed by communal farmers at 17 105.
At least 4 381 small scale farmers had registered followed by 2 453 A2 farmers. Large scale farmers total 721.
With the golden leaf emerging as a top export earner, most farmers in the country are turning to tobacco production, abandoning or reducing the hectarage for other crops.
Tobacco selling has largely been smooth when compared with other crops especially cotton, which is mired in controversy almost every marketing season.
Zimbabwe in the 2012 season increased its tobacco production to 142.7 million kgs compared to 100 million kgs in 2011. Selling of the crop continues, albeit at low levels, after the close of the main auction system in July. — New Ziana
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter