Zimbabwe Breaks All-Time Tobacco Production Record

Zimbabwe has shattered its all-time tobacco production record, surpassing the previous benchmark of 296 million kilograms set in 2023. According to the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), a total of 299,158,624 kg of tobacco had been sold by Day 71 of the 2025 marketing season, generating over US$1 billion in revenue for farmers. This puts the country just 841,376 kg away from achieving the historic 300 million kg milestone, a key target under the government’s Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan. TIMB in a statement: We’re now just 841,376 kgs away from reaching the 300 million kg milestone, the heart of our Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan. Last year, Zimbabwe exported 234 million kg of tobacco. This season’s growth is largely driven by increased plantings, with 125,000 hectares under cultivation, up from 113,000 hectares the previous year. The Zimbabwe Tobacco Association reports that the number of registered growers rose by 11%, reaching 127,311, with smallholder farmers contributing 85% of total production. Despite the record-breaking output, farmers face ongoing challenges. High input costs continue to weigh heavily on producers, many of whom receive only 30% of their earnings in ZiG, Zimbabwe’s local currency. Furthermore, 95% of the crop is financed through contract farming, leaving most growers reliant on external funding. Meanwhile, excitement is building around TIMB’s “Guess the Day We Reach 300 Million kg” Challenge, with participants eagerly awaiting the official announcement of the milestone and the winners of the competition.

6/18/2025 6:52:08 PM

Pindula

Zimbabwe Breaks All-Time Tobacco Production Record

Social network

Services