Johnson Progress

Defying the typical seasonal slowdown, Zimbabwe’s tobacco auction floors are experiencing a surge of activity as the 2025 marketing season enters its final phase, propelled by record-breaking deliveries and robust farmer participation pointing to an exceptional harvest.

The latest statistics released by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) paint a picture of unprecedented success.

Farmers have already delivered a staggering 326,242,859 kilogrammes of the golden leaf to both auction and contract floors, generating approximately US$1.09 billion in revenue. This represents a massive 48 percent increase in volume compared to the same period last year, which saw 220,344,030kg worth US$758.1 million sold.

Industry experts attribute this bumper season to a confluence of positive factors: significantly improved farming practices adopted nationwide, welcome stability in pricing structures, and a renewed sense of optimism permeating the sector.

The current average auction price stands at a healthy US$3.65 per kilogramme, while contract floors are averaging slightly lower at US$3.33/kg.

Notably, premium quality leaf has commanded top prices, reaching a high of US$4.10/kg on the auction floors, incentivizing farmers to bring their best produce to market.

Owen Murumbi, Executive Director of Premier Tobacco Auction Floor, confirmed the buoyant atmosphere and expressed strong confidence in the industry’s trajectory.

“We are witnessing a remarkably busy close to the season,” Murumbi stated.

“The stability of the local currency on the exchange rate has been a key driver, encouraging farmers to maintain and even increase their investment in tobacco cultivation. We anticipate even greater volumes next season.”

Murumbi also highlighted a crucial development contributing to the sector’s strength: enhanced grading skills among smallholder farmers.

“Farmers have significantly improved their skills in grading, resulting in consistently higher-quality leaves arriving at the floors,” he explained.

While acknowledging a slight dip in quality typical as the season winds down, Murumbi remains optimistic about the final tally.

“We are currently receiving about 1,000 bales per day and still expect the season to close at around 350 million kilogrammes.”

A critical improvement lauded by farmers this season has been the efficiency and timeliness of payments, a marked contrast to previous years’ delays.

This reliable payment system has significantly boosted farmer morale and trust in the marketing process, fueling their enthusiasm.

The transformative impact of this successful season is vividly illustrated by individual farmers.

Agnes Tembo from Karoi, who sold 80 bales with another 10 pending, shared her story: “I can’t express how fulfilling it is to see my hard work pay off. Tobacco farming has radically improved my life. I now own three cars, a beautiful homestead, and livestock.”

Tembo, targeting over US$26,000 from this year’s crop, is now investing in mechanization to prepare for an even larger harvest next season.

Fungisai Chakwenya, a widow from Tengwe in Hurungwe, sold 10 bales at over US$4 per kg.

“I feel an immense sense of pride in what I’ve accomplished with help from my children,” she said.

“The prices have been favourable and it feels good to see my efforts recognised.”

George Seremwe, Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association, applauded the collective achievement but called for greater institutional backing.

“Farmers have shown they are a formidable force in Zimbabwe’s economy,” Seremwe declared.

“It’s time for banks and stakeholders to recognise our efforts and support us further.”

He urged stakeholders to prioritize affordable financing and, crucially, the inclusion of farmers in value addition processes.

“If we are included in value addition, we will unlock significantly more revenue, ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of tobacco farming in Zimbabwe,” Seremwe emphasized.

As the final bales are sold, the record deliveries, improved quality, timely payments, and unwavering resilience of Zimbabwe’s tobacco farmers have not only defined the 2025 season but also set a powerfully hopeful tone for the future of this vital agricultural sector.

The industry appears poised for further growth, contingent on sustained support and market stability.