Online Reporter
Agriculture Reporter
Tobacco sales have increased by 49 percent since the marketing season began on March 5, 2025, compared to the same period last year, with stakeholders commending farmers for a high-quality crop.
Statistics from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (Timb) show that to date, 334 835 million kg of tobacco valued at US$1,120 billion have gone under the hammer, representing an increase of 49,9 percent.
During the same period last year, farmers had sold 223,3 million kg worth US$767,1 million.
The highest price offered so far this season is US$6,30 compared to US$6,99 per kg last year.
The highest price on the auction floors remains at US$4,99 per kg.
The marketing season has been smooth. Few farmers have complained about late payments, as most merchants are abiding by the Timb regulations.
Timb public affairs officer, Mrs Chelesani Tsarwe said the season was progressing well.
“The 2025 tobacco marketing season is progressing exceptionally well. The increase in both volume and value is a clear indication of improved productivity and better crop quality.
“We commend our growers, contractors, and all stakeholders for their collective efforts. Our focus remains on ensuring efficient, transparent marketing processes and sustained value for farmers. Timb continues to monitor market dynamics and support initiatives that enhance tobacco grower viability, sustainability and overall sector growth,” she said.
Meanwhile, the country has also exported 74,4 million kg worth US$ 433,5 million, at an average price of US$5,82 per kg, since the beginning of the year.
The Far East imported 37,7 million kg from Zimbabwe, valued at US$284,1 million at an average price of US$7,53 per kg.
Africa is also a major consumer of the Zimbabwean crop, after importing 17 million kg worth US$72,7 million at US$ 4,27 per kg.
The Middle East is in third place, having imported 10,2 million kg worth US$34,1 million, while countries in the European Union imported a cumulative 5,9 million kg valued at US$ 31,9 million, at an average price of US$5,40 per kg.
The Americas bought 2,6 million kg worth US$$ 8,2 million, at an average price of US$3,10 per kg and Europe 816 249 kg worth US$ 1,9 million at an average price of US$2,37 per kg.
Oceania is offering the highest price of US$ 8,45 per kg.
The country imported 28 560 kg worth US$241 332 million. The tobacco industry has been performing better than other sectors.
This has been attributed to an organised marketing system where farmers get their money soon after selling their produce.
Since the land reform, smallholder farmers have been the major producers of tobacco.
The farmers have continued to improve their skills and this has resulted in a high-quality crop.
Zimbabwean tobacco, one of the country’s biggest exports, along with gold and platinum, is famous for its exceptional flavour.
