A Tobacco Farmer has urged lawmakers to reconsider the Tobacco Control Bill 2025 because of its negative impact on the economy.
Brian Hapunda emphasized that thousands of rural households depend on tobacco cultivation for survival, stressing that stricter regulations could undermine farmers’ incomes and destabilize entire communities.
Mr. Hapunda noted that reduced demand would ripple through the supply chain, affecting distributors and retailers.
“Enforcement against smuggling remains weak, making illicit trade a serious threat,” he said.
He observed that once legal production declines, black‑market operators quickly fill the gap.
Mr. Hapunda stated that Zambia could face widespread unemployment if factories close due to falling sales.
He emphasized the need for government to balance health concerns with economic realities.
“Ignoring the livelihoods of farmers would deepen poverty in vulnerable regions,” Mr. Hapunda noted.
Mr. Hapunda urged Parliament to carefully weigh the long‑term consequences of the Bill, stating that
lessons from South Africa show how illicit cigarettes can destroy legal industry.
“Zambia must avoid repeating such mistakes by protecting both jobs and communities,” he emphasized.
In December 2025, Cabinet approved the publication and introduction of the Tobacco Control Bill, to Parliament to protect public health from the effects of tobacco, nicotine addiction, and exposure to harmful emissions.
The Bill aims to regulate packaging, labeling, and tobacco usage, aligning with the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).
