PMI set to return to Zimbabwe to boost tobacco value addition

Tobacco leaf drying barn in Zimbabwe

Philip Morris International (PMI), the world’s largest tobacco company, is preparing to re‑establish a presence in Zimbabwe nearly two decades after exiting the regional market a development that could accelerate the country’s drive to add value to its tobacco crop.

A senior PMI delegation led by Christos Harpantidis, the company’s chief corporate affairs officer, is due in Harare on 18 February 2026. The visit follows diplomatic discussions between PMI executives and Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, held on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Official correspondence dated 11 February 2026 indicates the talks will prioritise value addition and beneficiation, with PMI exploring ways to support local processing and manufacturing of tobacco products rather than the continued export of raw leaf. Delegates are also expected to discuss sustainability and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) standards, including ethical labour practices and environmental safeguards across the tobacco value chain.

PMI’s potential return coincides with a notable expansion in Zimbabwe’s tobacco sector. Planted hectarage for the 2025/2026 season reportedly rose by 42%, aligning with the Government’s Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan, which aims to grow the industry into a US$5 billion sector by shifting emphasis from raw exports to local manufacturing and higher‑value products.

Historically, Zimbabwe has exported roughly 90% of its tobacco crop in raw form. Industry analysts say the re‑entry of a global player such as PMI could signal renewed international confidence, attract investment in processing infrastructure, and help integrate local growers into global supply chains. Such partnerships could also create jobs, transfer technical know‑how, and support the government’s beneficiation objectives.

PMI previously closed its Southern Africa office in 1981 amid sanctions tied to the apartheid era. In the intervening decades, British American Tobacco South Africa held exclusive rights to manufacture, distribute, and sell PMI brands in Zimbabwe and neighbouring markets. Globally, PMI markets more than 130 cigarette brands, including Marlboro, L&M and Chesterfield, and has invested heavily in smoke‑free alternatives such as the IQOS heated tobacco system and ZYN nicotine pouches.

Observers caution that any renewed engagement will hinge on clear agreements over local content, regulatory compliance, and adherence to international sustainability standards. The February visit is expected to clarify PMI’s intended scope, potential investments, and timelines, and to outline how public‑private collaboration could advance Zimbabwe’s ambition to capture more value from its flagship agricultural export.

PMI return Zimbabwe 2026