Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura-Mutare Bureau
PREPARATIONS for the opening of the 2026 tobacco marketing season have started, with the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board inviting transporters to register for the forthcoming season expected to open in April.
The registration is aimed at ensuring the availability of compliant and efficient transport services during the marketing period, when large volumes of tobacco are moved from farming areas to auction floors and contract sales facilities.
Only registered transporters will be permitted to operate during the season. The move is part of efforts to improve order, accountability and compliance within the tobacco value chain.
TIMB encouraged farmers to use registered transporters with reliable vehicles and some sort of cover or a tent to protect tobacco from the rain and other weather conditions.
When using a registered transporter, farmers do not risk their lives sitting on top of tobacco bales on their way to the auction floors.
“TIMB advises all stakeholders that tobacco transporter registration and renewal for the 2026 season is now open. Registration can be done at the TIMB Head Office and any TIMB Regional Office. TIMB encourages all transporters to register on time to ensure smooth and compliant tobacco movement during the season,” TIMB said in a statement.
According to the board, the registration process will require transporters to submit company details, proof of vehicle ownership or leasing arrangements, and evidence of compliance with relevant statutory and safety requirements. TIMB said the exercise will also help curb illegal activities and protect growers from unfair practices and overcharging of farmers.
Upon successful registration, TIMB will provide the transporter with a creditor number to be used to make deductions at the auction floors where the bales would have been delivered, provided the farmer does not make cash payments to the transporter.
