Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry has shown resilience in the 2026 marketing season despite a difficult global market environment, according to the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB). As of July 29, the country had sold more than 356.2 million kilograms of tobacco, generating US$887.9 million in revenue. This represents a 1 percent year-on-year increase in output, underscoring growers’ continued confidence in the golden leaf.
China remained the largest export destination, accounting for 34 percent of total export volume since marketing began in March. TIMB noted that the season was marked by increased global supply, higher carry-over stocks, and subdued international demand, which placed downward pressure on prices. Locally, prices were initially affected by limited buyer participation but strengthened as competition improved. The auction marketing season ends on July 31, followed by mop-up sales on August 5 and 6, while contract sales will continue until deliveries are completed.
Looking ahead to the 2026/2027 season, TIMB has encouraged growers to prioritise productivity and quality over expanding hectarage, adopt certified seeds, and invest in water conservation practices to improve resilience. Tobacco remains a key agricultural export earner for Zimbabwe, with the 2024/2025 season producing 354.8 million kg worth US$1.2 billion. Under the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan (2026-2030), the country aims to increase output to 500 million kg and build a US$7 billion tobacco industry by 2030 through enhanced productivity, local value retention, and export market diversification.