Zimbabwe’s tobacco sector has again proven its staying power, with the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) confirming that total sales for the 2026 marketing season had reached 356.2 million kilograms by July 29, worth US$887.9 million. This represents a 1% increase in output compared to the same period last year, signalling grower confidence despite difficult global conditions.
TIMB said the season was marked by increased global supply, higher carry-over stocks, and subdued international demand, which put downward pressure on prices. Locally, prices were initially affected by limited buyer participation but improved as competition intensified later in the season.
China remained the largest export destination, taking 34% of Zimbabwe’s total tobacco export volume since sales opened in March. The auction marketing season closed on July 31, with mop-up sales scheduled for August 5 and 6. Contract sales will continue until all deliveries are completed.
Looking ahead, TIMB is urging growers to focus on productivity and quality rather than simply expanding hectarage. The board also recommends adopting certified seeds and investing in water conservation practices to build resilience for the 2026/2027 season.
Zimbabwe produced 354.8 million kg of tobacco worth US$1.2 billion in the 2024/2025 season. Under the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan (2026–2030), the country aims to increase output to 500 million kg and grow the industry to a US$7 billion sector by 2030 through enhanced productivity, local value retention, and export market diversification.
