Online Reporter
Elita Chikwati
EARNINGS from tobacco sales have reached US$800 million since the opening of the marketing season in March.
Latest statistics from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) show that tobacco sales have increased by 34 percent compared to the same period last year.
By day 57, TIMB statistics indicate that farmers had sold 237,2 million kg worth US$800,3 million at an average price of US$3,37 per kg.
This is an increase from the 176,6 million kg worth US$616,2 million sold during the corresponding period last year.
The bulk of the tobacco has passed through the contract floors with 225 million kilogrammes worth US$756,3 million having been sold by contracted farmers, while the auction floors received 12,2 million kg worth US$44 million.
The marketing season is now at the peak period with farmers delivering between 5.5 and 6 million kilogrammes of tobacco daily.
At least 300 million kilogrammes of tobacco are expected this season.
