Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry is set to bounce back significantly this farming season, driven by optimistic rainfall forecasts and strong governmental support. The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has announced ambitious production targets, signaling a promising turnaround from last year’s drought-impacted yields.
Ambitious Production Targets for 2024/25
TIMB has set a goal of producing 300 million kilogrammes of tobacco in the 2024/25 farming season. This target is based on projections of normal to above-normal rainfall, which could mitigate the adverse effects experienced during the previous season.
Emmanuel Matsvaire, TIMB’s acting CEO, expressed confidence in achieving this milestone. “We have high hopes of attaining the set target following the pleasant weather forecast,” Matsvaire stated. He highlighted the resilience of the sector despite the El Niño-induced drought that reduced last season’s output to 231 million kg from 297 million kg the year before.
Government Support Fuels Growth
The government’s backing has been instrumental in revitalizing the tobacco industry. According to Matsvaire, there has been a 53% increase in the area planted with tobacco, rising to 116,454 hectares from 76,017 hectares in 2001. This expansion has not only boosted production but also enhanced foreign currency earnings.
Key Achievements:
- Export Revenue: Tobacco exports generated US$1.3 billion last year, marking a 30% increase from US$1 billion in 2022.
- Industry Growth: The sector is on track to become a US$60 billion industry by 2028.
- Grower Support: Increased numbers of tobacco farmers have contributed to rising production records.
Matsvaire emphasized that the combination of favorable weather and strategic government initiatives has positioned Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry for sustained growth and increased global competitiveness.
Diversification Efforts in Agriculture
While tobacco remains a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s agricultural exports, there are also significant strides being made in other crops. The Food Crop Contractors Association of Zimbabwe (FCCA) has set a target to produce 130,000 tonnes of wheat this year. This comes after wheat farmers achieved a production of 468,000 tonnes from 90,186 hectares in 2022.
Crop | 2022 Production | 2024/25 Target |
---|---|---|
Tobacco | 231 million kg | 300 million kg |
Wheat | 468,000 tonnes | 130,000 tonnes |
The focus on wheat production aims to diversify agricultural output and reduce dependency on a single crop, ensuring economic stability and food security.
Economic Implications and Future Prospects
The resurgence of the tobacco industry is expected to have a positive impact on Zimbabwe’s economy. Increased production and exports will contribute significantly to GDP growth and foreign exchange reserves. Additionally, the rise in tobacco farming creates employment opportunities, benefiting rural communities and enhancing livelihoods.
Matsvaire concluded, “The country is on course to accomplish a US$60 billion tobacco industry by 2028, thanks to the unwavering support from the government and the dedication of our farmers.”
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