Published: 3 hours ago

Zimbabwe's 2026 tobacco marketing season is gaining strong momentum, with farmers earning more than US$400 million as deliveries increase across auction and contract floors.

The surge in output comes amid firming prices, which have boosted confidence among growers ahead of the peak marketing period. Auction floors are now processing large volumes of tobacco, reflecting renewed optimism after a slow start to the season.

Farmers say the recent recovery in prices is helping stabilise incomes following early volatility. One grower reported achieving a top price of US$4.99 per kilogramme, attributing the return to good agronomic practices and careful crop management.

However, some producers noted that heavy rains during the early stages of the growing season negatively affected crop quality and yields due to nutrient leaching, ultimately reducing earnings.

Tobacco marketing expert Sam Garaba said rising delivery volumes signal growing confidence within the sector.

"The prices were low during the early stage of the marketing season, but we are seeing volumes shooting up, an indication of confidence by farmers over the high prices prevailing now. The 2025 prices are back, so from the look of things, the market has stabilised," he said.

Average prices are currently ranging between US$2.06 and US$2.69 per kilogramme, marking a notable improvement from the depressed levels seen at the opening of the season.

Industry analysts have urged farmers who had been holding onto their crop in anticipation of better prices to capitalise on the current favourable conditions.

As deliveries continue to rise toward the peak marketing window, experts say increasing the number of buying teams at auction floors will be key to improving efficiency and reducing delays.

Zimbabwe remains one of the world's leading tobacco producers, with the sector playing a crucial role in generating export earnings, supporting rural livelihoods and driving broader agricultural growth.
- ZBC

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