Zimbabwe’s tobacco marketing season has recorded a significant increase in volumes sold by Day 34 of trading on April 22, 2026.
In its latest update, yesterday, the Zimbabwe Economic Review reported, “A total of 149.92 million kilogrammes of tobacco had been sold across both auction and contract floors, reflecting a strong performance in output.
However, the combined average price stood at US$2.65 per kilogramme, markedly lower than last year’s average,” the Zimbabwe Economic Review said
The Zimbabwe Economic Review noted the figures accounted for by the auction floors.
“Auction floors accounted for 8.81 million kilogrammes sold at an average price of US$2.06 per kilogramme.
Contract sales dominated the market, with 141.12 million kilogrammes sold at a higher average price of US$2.69 per kilogramme,” the report noted.
The Zimbabwe Economic Review analysed the sector’s performance.
“The 2026 tobacco marketing season continues to show strong volume growth, though prices remain under pressure compared to last year,” it said.
According to the report the latest figures show a significant year-on-year increase in output.
“By Day 34 of the 2025 marketing season, Zimbabwe had sold 93.99 million kilogrammes of tobacco at a much higher average price of US$3.42 per kilogramme.
This translates to a volume increase of over 59 percent in 2026, while prices have declined by approximately 22.5 percent,” the Zimbabwe Economic Review said.
The Zimbabwe Economic Review attributed the contrasting trends to several factors affecting the market.
“While volumes are up by over 59 percent year-on-year, the average price has declined sharply, indicating increased supply, quality mix dynamics, or softer global demand conditions,” the publication noted.
Tobacco remains Zimbabwe’s leading agricultural export and a key source of foreign currency.
Furthermore, the sector supports thousands of smallholder farmers and plays a crucial role in rural livelihoods, making price trends as significant as production volumes in determining overall earnings for growers and the economy.
