Theseus Shambare
TOBACCO farmers have earned US$619.15 million from auction and contract sales, according data released by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB).
This represents a significant 16,61 percent increase in value compared to the US$530,95 million recorded during the same period last year.
The statistics show that a total of 183,03 million kilogrammes of tobacco have been sold so far this season, marking a 21,38 percent jump from the 150,78 million kilogrammes sold by this time in 2024.
The average price per kilogramme stood at US$3,38, slightly lower than last year’s US$3,52, reflecting a 3,93 percent decrease.
Despite the marginal dip in average price, the increased volumes have propelled the overall earnings upwards.
Farmers delivered 2 326 897 bales to the auction and contract floors, with 2 261 330 bales sold.
The rejection rate of 2,82 percent indicates a generally good quality of the delivered crop. The highest average price recorded was US6,30 per kilogramme, while the lowest remained at US0,10 per kilogramme.
TIMB spokesperson Ms Chelesani Moyo-Tsarwe expressed satisfaction with the season’s performance thus far.
“We are pleased with the significant increase in earnings for our hardworking tobacco farmers.
“The over US$600 million mark is a testament to their dedication and the quality of Zimbabwean tobacco, which continues to attract both local and international buyers,” she said.
Meanwhile, Ms Moyo-Tsarwe also addressed the crucial issue of stalk destruction, reminding farmers of the impending deadline.
