HARARE, Mar. 26 (NewsDay Live) – Tobacco sales have reached nearly US$100 million within the first 13 days of the marketing season, marking a 32% increase compared to the same period last year, as more farmers deliver their crop to auction floors.
According to official figures from the regulator, the latest performance reflects continued growth across the tobacco value chain. Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) chief executive officer Emmanuel Matsvaire said the strong sales will benefit farmers.
“As of day 13, of the marketing season, we have recorded total volumes of approximately 34.75 million kilograms, representing a 62% increase compared to the same period last year. This clearly indicates increased production and improved farmer participation,” he said.
“In value terms, the crop has generated over US$98 million, which is a 32% increase from the prior season.”
Matsvaire added that activity on auction floors has intensified, with 25,240 bales laid and more than 21,000 sold, reflecting strong market uptake.
“As the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board, we remain committed to ensuring that the marketing system evolves in a way that safeguards farmers’ interests, promotes fair trade practices, and enhances value for all stakeholders,” he said.
The 2026 tobacco marketing season has progressed steadily since opening earlier this month.
“As an industry, we must continuously build trust, integrity and accountability across the entire tobacco value chain. Ethical conduct is no longer optional; it is fundamental to sustainability, market access and long-term growth.
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“Our shared responsibility is to ensure the sector grows in a sustainable, inclusive and ethical manner,” Matsvaire said.
A senior buyer with an international merchant noted that the season initially started slowly due to lower prices.
“It is encouraging to see the market gaining momentum. Market stability is a welcome development for farmers, who are now selling with greater confidence as prices begin to firm,” the buyer said.
“Volumes have started to increase after two weeks of price discovery, and the season is now taking shape. We urge farmers to grade their leaf properly and deliver on time.”
Farmers have also expressed cautious optimism as prices strengthen.
“We are confident that, under the current conditions, we are moving towards a situation where every farmer receives a fair price,” one farmer said.
“Although prices were very low at the beginning, they are now firming.”
Another farmer, who delivered his crop earlier this week, said his decision was guided by close monitoring of market trends.
