TOBACCO farmers have earned over US$74 million within the first two weeks of the 2026 marketing season, which reached its 11th day on Friday.
Latest statistics from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) show that more than 27 million kilogrammes of tobacco have been sold so far, a 44% increase from the 19 million kilogrammes delivered during the same period last year.
Premier Tobacco Auction Floor market analyst Sam Garaba said although the season initially was characterised by price fluctuations, the market was beginning to stabilise.
“The market has stabilised as farmers have started responding positively to market forces. Volumes have begun to increase after two weeks of price discovery and the season is now taking shape. We urge farmers to grade their leaf properly and deliver on time,” Garaba said.
Farmers expressed cautious optimism as prices begin to firm.
“We are confident that with the current situation, we are getting there, where every farmer will get a fair price for their leaf,” one farmer said.
“Although prices were very low at the beginning, they are firming now.”
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Another farmer who delivered his crop earlier this week said his decision was informed by close monitoring of market trends.\
“I brought my tobacco for sale on Monday after studying the market and I believe I will get a good price based on current trends,” he said.
The average price stands at US$2,71 per kilogramme, down from US$3,50 during the same period last year.
However, despite softer prices influenced by global market conditions, the overall value of sales has risen by 12%, from US$66 million last year to over US$74 million this season, driven mainly by stronger volumes.
