Zimbabwe’s tobacco export earnings increased by 22.6% to US$986.1 million between January and October 9, 2026.
In a report, yesterday, the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) said that the country exported 185.2 million kilogrammes of tobacco during the period, representing a 25.3% increase in volumes compared to the corresponding period in 2025.
“Zimbabwe exported 185.2 million kg of tobacco worth US$986,1 million between January and 9 October 2026,” TIMB reported.
TIMB figures show that the Far East remained Zimbabwe’s largest tobacco export destination, generating US$571 million during the period under review.
“The Far East remained the largest market, generating US$571 million,” TIMB said.
Africa was the second-largest market, accounting for US$166.3 million in export earnings, reflecting the importance of regional markets to the country’s tobacco trade.
“Africa generated US$166.3 million in tobacco export earnings between January and 9 October 2026,” TIMB reported.
The strong performance in export volumes, however, was accompanied by a slight decline in the average price received for tobacco on the international market.
“The average export price declined from US$5.44 per kilogramme to US$5.32 per kilogramme,” the board said.
The figures suggest that the increase in export earnings was primarily driven by the greater quantity of tobacco shipped to international markets rather than improved prices.
Despite the decline in average prices, the increase in volumes helped Zimbabwe record stronger export receipts, reinforcing tobacco’s role in the country’s agricultural exports and foreign currency inflows.
The performance also highlights the importance of maintaining access to established markets while exploring opportunities to expand exports and improve returns for locally produced tobacco.
