Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe
Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has threatened to take punitive measures against unregistered companies that contract tobacco farmers, as part of measures to stem the genesis of side marketing.
TIMB said non-compliant firms were prohibited from supplying tobacco seedbed packs, inputs, or any form of support to farmers, noting that such illegal activities undermined the integrity and sustainability of Zimbabwe’s multi-billion-dollar tobacco sector.
The regulator stressed that only licensed companies are authorised to operate within the value chain.
“The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) hereby reminds all stakeholders that unregistered companies are not permitted to provide tobacco seedbed packs, inputs, or any form of support to farmers,” said TIMB.
“Such practices are irregular, mark the beginning of non-compliance and disorderly conduct, and constitute the genesis of side marketing, which threatens the integrity and sustainability of the tobacco industry. Only licensed companies are authorised to operate within the tobacco value chain.
“TIMB will take corrective measures against any entity found contravening these requirements. Report such unlawful practices to TIMB.”
The warning comes at a time when the golden leaf, one of Zimbabwe’s top foreign currency earners, is grappling with side marketing and disorderly contracting arrangements that have prejudiced both farmers and registered contractors.
Authorities have since intensified enforcement measures to safeguard compliant players and ensure the long-term viability of the industry.
Meanwhile, the regulator revealed that as of August 14, about 1,240 million grammes of tobacco seed had been sold, enough to cover an estimated 247 955 hectares.
This represents a 12 percent increase from last year’s 1,110 million grammes, which covered 221 954 hectares in 2024.
TIMB said the growth reflects a promising outlook for the upcoming season.
Online Reporter