Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
Tobacco farmers have demonstrated their resilience and productivity by setting a new national record in tobacco production, with sales surpassing the 299 million kilogramme mark.
According to official figures from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), as of day 71 of the 2024 marketing season, a staggering 299,158,624kg of tobacco have been sold, eclipsing last year’s record of 296 million kg.
This surge in output has earned farmers just over US$1 billion in revenue, reflecting strong global demand and improved efficiencies in local production.
“Zimbabwe! We’ve officially broken our all-time tobacco production record of 296 million kgs.
“As of Day 71, a massive 299,158,624 kgs of tobacco have been sold and farmers have earned just over 1 billion USD. We’re now just 841,376 kgs away from reaching the legendary 300 million kg milestone — the heart of our Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan!” TIMB said.
TIMB attributed the milestone to increased hectarage under tobacco, good rainfall patterns, and the adoption of sustainable agronomic practices under the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan (TVCTP), which aims to boost local beneficiation, increase farmer profitability, and reduce dependency on imports.
With the selling season still underway, stakeholders remain optimistic that Zimbabwe’s golden leaf will continue to deliver golden returns for the nation.
Tobacco provides the best economic return per hectare among all major crops. The tobacco value chain employs more than 1.2 million people, with up to six million dependants.
