Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo,Zimpapers Business Hub
LANDS, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister Dr Anxious Masuka on Wednesday hosted a delegation from China Tobacco Company in a development meant to advance Zimbabwe’s strategic vision for a modern, sustainable tobacco sector.
The Minister called upon China Tobacco to establish a cigarette manufacturing plant in Zimbabwe, leveraging the country’s central location as a regional production and export hub.
Discussions also highlighted opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), enabling Zimbabwe to access continental markets while jointly combating illicit cigarette trade to protect revenue and legitimate farmers.
Tobacco remains the nation’s top agricultural export, supporting more than 135 000 farmers.
Dr Masuka stated China’s pivotal role, noting it consumes half of the nation’s crop.
While Zimbabwe excels in production, most tobacco is exported semi-processed.
Minister Masuka also outlined a bold ambition to increase domestic value addition to 30 percent by 2030, underscoring that China’s expertise will be instrumental in driving innovation, beneficiation, and broader economic growth.
