Tobacco manufacturer British American Tobacco Zimbabwe (BATZ) has secured financial support from its shareholder as profits surged, largely driven by accounting gains linked to recognising legacy foreign currency obligations converted into Treasury Bills.
British American Tobacco International Holdings controls BATZ through its 43% stake and is incorporated in the United Kingdom; the remaining 57% of shares are widely held. The ultimate holding company of the group is British American Tobacco Plc, also incorporated in the United Kingdom.
The support comes as BATZ strengthens its balance sheet following improved cash flows, a sharp recovery in profitability, and the resolution of long-standing blocked foreign currency balances, reinforcing confidence in the company’s ability to operate as a going concern through 2026.
“The group and company continued to generate positive operating cash flows during the year and into the following year, supported by stable domestic demand, effective working capital management, improved access to foreign currency, and a continued positive cash flow position,” BATZ said in its annual report for 2025.
“The group and company have no overdraft facilities or external borrowings, and operational and capital expenditure requirements continue to be funded from internally generated resources.”
BATZ added: “In addition, the directors have obtained a formal letter of support from the shareholder confirming the availability of financial support through to 2026, further reinforcing the appropriateness of the going concern assumption.”
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BATZ reported cash at bank and on hand of US$7,36 million at the end of the review period, up from US$2,13 million in the prior year.
The directors said they had considered the group’s financial performance, liquidity position, settlement of blocked funds, reduction in foreign liabilities, and expected cash-flow forecasts when assessing the company’s ability to continue operating.
“Based on this assessment, the directors believe that the group and company have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and are therefore a going concern,” BATZ said.
For the year ended December 31, 2025, BATZ recorded a profit after tax of US$11,53 million, compared to a prior-year loss of US$757 432.
The improvement was driven by accounting gains following the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s settlement of previously registered blocked funds amounting to US$16,4 million during the period, with the government issuing Treasury Bill No. 6831960, maturing on September 19, 2050.
Consequently, BATZ derecognised the blocked funds asset and recognised the Treasury Bill at amortised cost, in line with International Financial Reporting Standard 9 requirements under a hold-to-collect model.
This reclassification removed uncertainty over recoverability, eliminated associated liquidity and settlement risks, and supported the group’s return to profitability, while strengthening the basis for shareholder support.
“Despite the challenging operating conditions, and in recognition of the company’s commitment to delivering value to shareholders, the board has recommended a final dividend of US$0,22 per share, subject to approval at the forthcoming annual general meeting,” BATZ chairperson Lovemore Manatsa said.
“While currency volatility, inflationary pressure, and power shortages remain key risks, ongoing regulatory reforms and policy stability create opportunities for sustainable growth. The board remains cautiously optimistic that the company’s strengthened operational foundations, improved governance structures and sustainability focus will continue to drive long-term value creation.”