The 8 th of March 2023 saw the opening of the 2023 Flue-cured Tobacco marketing season.
The launch, which was officiated by Vice President.Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga was attended by
government officials, farmers, merchants and industry players.
In his presentation, the TIMB Board Chairman, Patrick Devenish assured farmers that there will be an
improved payment system in this year’s marketing season, “The rebranded TIMB envisions
payments on time, Merchants and buyers are mandated to pay growers within 48hrs, failure to do
so will result in penalties,” he said.
Chairman, Patrick Devenish also highlighted that outstanding payments from last year’s sales will be
paid by this weekend (12 March 2023)
“Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Strategy is alive!!!” said Honourable A. J. Masuka in
excitement.
The Honourable Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, Climate and Rural Development
also emphasised that, the nation should continue with the strategy of locking value of the tobacco
cash crop.
“We do not want to export value, we do not want to export jobs, let us retain value,” he said.
Vice President, Dr. C.G.D.N Chiwenga expressed his appreciation to tobacco farmers for their hard
work and commitment.
“We appreciate the efforts from all our farmers, we have noted your concerns of viability and
working with the Reserve Bank, the USD pay out component has increased from 75% to 85%.
The first bale was sold for US$4,35 per kg, up from US$4,20.
On day 1 of the 2023 tobacco marketing season, 48 938 kilograms of tobacco were sold at auction
floors.
