Online Reporter
Agriculture News Editor
TOBACCO marketing has continued with contract buyers offering nearly double the prices being offered at the auction floors.
This development comes as farmers have been urged to market their crop strategically to mitigate losses.
According to the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), by day four, 1.8 million kilogrammes of tobacco worth US$2.3 million had been sold, compared to 2.5 million kg valued at US$3.5 million during the same period last year. However, average prices remain low.
The average auction price on day four was US$1.59 per kg, while contract floors averaged US$2.79 per kg.
The floors opened on March 4.
The TIMB statistics show that the highest price at auction floors remained below US$5, whereas contract floors recorded a highest price of US$5.50 per kg.
Meanwhile, the Tobacco Farmers Talk, (TFT) a social media group, has advised growers to prioritise quality, proper grading, and patience when marketing their crop.
“Tobacco Farmer Talk encourages our members and all growers to remain calm and focused, as this season will require discipline, patience, and thoughtful strategic marketing decisions,” said TFT founder, Mr Phineas Mukomberanwa.
He said tobacco was a high-value crop that should not be treated as a perishable commodity.
“If the price offered does not reflect the quality of your tobacco or the cost of production, growers have the right to withdraw their tobacco and re-offer it later. Selling tobacco at extremely low prices only encourages continued downward pressure on the market,” he said.
Mr Mukomberanwa emphasised the importance of avoiding flooding the market early in the season.
Focus on presentation and grading. In seasons of global oversupply, buyers become more selective. Growers should ensure proper grading according to leaf position, clean and uniform bales, correct moisture levels and good presentation,” he said.
Growers were also discouraged from side-marketing their crop, but to honour contractual obligations.
“Contracts are built on trust and mutual commitment. The long-term sustainability of the tobacco sector depends on transparency in marketing and fair participation across all selling platforms.
“The tobacco industry thrives when all stakeholders act responsibly and fairly. Growers invest significant time and resources into producing their crop, and the market must reflect the true value of that effort.”
TIMB chief executive, Mr Emmanuel Matsvaire, said farmers had the right to reject unfair prices.
“Farmers are not obliged to accept low prices, and their rejection rights still exist. TIMB will not tolerate conduct that undermines competitive integrity or prejudices the welfare of our growers,” he said.
