Tobacco Farmers See 37% Sales Surge in 2025 as Auction Prices Soar and Land Reform Pays Off

The Tobacco Auction Floors

Reporter

This year's tobacco marketing season is marked by notable stability and prosperity, creating a favorable climate for farmers as auction prices remain impressively high.

The auction floors are alive with activity, featuring long lines of trucks loaded with tobacco. This influx of deliveries signifies that the season has reached its peak, with farmers taking full advantage of the positive market conditions. Farmers are visibly delighted, their smiles reflecting a sense of optimism that fills the auction environment.

 According to the latest figures from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), farmers have sold an impressive 249 125 878 kg of tobacco this year, generating a total revenue of US $839 437 243. This represents a significant increase compared to last year, when 181 535 957 kg was sold for US $632 699 362 during the same timeframe. The remarkable 37percent increase in sales highlights the industry's favourable trajectory.

Currently, the average auction price is US$3.39, while contract prices are slightly lower at US$3.36. This advantageous pricing has encouraged many farmers to sell their tobacco at auction instead of opting for contracts, with numerous farmers expressing satisfaction with the current market dynamics.

Since the land reform program smallholder farmers have gained greater control over their agricultural futures, producing an impressive 85percent of total crop output. Notably, 60percent of these farmers are beneficiaries of the land reform initiative, underscoring its essential role in improving their livelihoods and fostering economic independence. The Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy further supports these efforts by equipping farmers with essential tools and knowledge to maximise their land’s potential. This combination of policy and support has empowered smallholder farmers, enabling them not only to cultivate their fields but also to thrive economically and socially.

During a recent visit to the auction floors, the reporter spoke with several farmers, all of whom expressed their enthusiasm for the favorable prices this season, a stark contrast to previous years. Mr Gift Madzo, a farmer from Kazangarare, Karoi, expressed his appreciation, emphasizing the significance of the land reform. “Tobacco farming has dramatically changed my life over the past three years since I began cultivating this crop. Owning land and being able to produce tobacco has been life-altering for me. I’m thrilled with the prices at the auction. For the last three years, my tobacco has consistently fetched this price because I ensure I use enough fertilizers, which are crucial for leaf quality and size. I encourage my fellow farmers to continue with tobacco production, as it is truly the highest-paying crop in our region,” he remarked.

Similarly, Mrs  Chemina Paul, a young mother from Mhangura, shared her excitement about this season. “This year stands out like no other. It’s evident that more people are heading to the auction floors. The prices are so appealing that many are opting out of contracts. I’m incredibly thankful for the current situation at the auction. Payments are made promptly, which is a significant improvement for us as farmers. This year, I’m focused on enhancing my property so I can fully furnish my lovely home,” she noted.

Mr Robert Jakarasi, also from Karoi, pointed out how the attractive prices have drawn more farmers to the market. “The main factor that brings farmers to the market is the price,” he explained. “Everyone needs money, which is why you see such long lines of trucks here. Better prices attract more participants. I’ve sold 26 bales here, and they’ve all fetched US $4.99 each. I can’t express how much this has transformed my life; my previous struggles have vanished. Now, I’m focused on buying a nice car and ensuring my children can attend a better school,” he said. The strong performance at the auction floors this season reflects a positive trend for tobacco farmers and underscores the significant influence of the land reform programme.