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 percent increase from the 19 million kilogrammes delivered during the same period last year.
Premier Tobacco Auction Floor Market Analyst, Sam Garaba said that although the season opened with price fluctuations, the market is now beginning to stabilise.
“The market has stabilised as farmers are starting to respond 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 have also 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.”
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 currently 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 percent, from US$66 million last year to over US$74 million this season, driven mainly by stronger delivery volumes.
