Zimbabwe’s tobacco sales have raked in US$650 million, with a total 238,190,736 kg sold at an average US$2.54 per kg.
The sales are edging toward the country’s 360 000-tonne target for the 2026 marketing season.
According to the Zimbabwe Tobacco Association, on day 52, Flue-Cured-Virginia tobacco sold through the auction stood at 17,739,060 kg at an average USD1.82 per kg, while contract sales were 238,190,736 kg at an average USD2.59 per kg.
Combined total tobacco sold amounted to 255,929,796 kg at average USD2.54 per kg.
“On this day in 2025, 207,166,487 kg were sold at average USD3.38 per kg,” the Association said.
However, the rising golden leaf sales come amid grower frustrations over low prices.
Farmers are facing significant price drops, with average prices falling by over 20-40 percent compared to prior years.
Depressed global demand, oversupply, reduced Chinese orders, and dissatisfaction with mandatory local currency payouts have triggered farmer protests and regulatory intervention.