ALL is set for the official opening of the 2026 tobacco marketing season tomorrow, with most farmers across the country making final preparations in anticipation of a fruitful season.Export visibility services
The marketing season will start with auction sales on Wednesday, followed by contract sales on Thursday.
The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has released forecasts indicating a promising yield, projecting that the country’s tobacco output will surpass 400 million kg, a significant increase from the 354 million kg harvested last season.
Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association (ZTGA), president, Mr George Seremwe, indicated that farmers should protect themselves from being fleeced by middlemen.
“We are encouraging growers to be wary of the middlemen who often come offering immediate cash. While it may seem appealing, these individuals tend to shortchange farmers on prices. We know that it may be a slow start to the season, but we believe that volumes will increase with each selling week.”
Mr Seremwe underscored the need for farmers to honour their contractual commitments.
“This year, we are emphasising that non-payment by any contractor should not be allowed to happen,” he said.
“Contractors should pay farmers within the timeframe outlined in TIMB regulations.”
He also highlighted the significance of avoiding side marketing, encouraging farmers to adhere strictly to the contracts they have signed.
Current activities on the ground include the reaping, curing, and grading of this year’s crop. The quality of this season’s tobacco is expected to be superior, thanks largely to the beneficial rains that Zimbabwe has received recently.
He said this year’s crop is shaping up to be of much better quality. We anticipate higher average prices than last year as a result of the improved yields. Farmers are adopting sustainable production methods to produce high-yield, quality tobacco,.”
Zimbabwe National Farmers union president, Mrs Monica Chinamasa, advised farmers to utilise auction floors for selling their crops to ensure they receive better prices.
“We also urge contractors to seriously consider opening more auction floors that are closer to farmers to help reduce transport costs. This would vastly improve accessibility and encourage higher participation,” she said.
As the TIMB prepares for the marketing season, emphasis will be placed on regulatory compliance, the licensing of buyers, and ensuring the readiness of both auction and contract floors.
The outlook for tobacco in 2026 is bright, buoyed by increased hectarage, enhanced crop establishment, and a general sense of confidence among farmers.
-herald
