Tobacco Board of Zambia (TBZ) has announced that it has secured a buyer for tobacco produced by self-sponsored growers.
According to the Board, the development is expected to bring relief and confidence to farmers who have financed their own production during the 2025/2026 tobacco growing season.
For many self-sponsored growers, the development represents a welcome reward for their hard work, resilience and investment throughout the growing season and provides renewed confidence in the future of Zambia’s tobacco industry.
Speaking on the development, TBZ Executive Director Robert Mwale said the move underscores the Board’s commitment to ensuring that every marketable tobacco crop grown in Zambia has access to a ready market.
“The Board recognizes the critical role played by self-sponsored growers in the tobacco industry and remains committed to creating an enabling environment that promotes sustainable production and marketing of tobacco,” he said.
Mr. Mwale added that TBZ places a high premium on protecting the interests of growers and ensuring that no farmer is left behind.
“ We understand the concerns that self-sponsored growers may have regarding the sale of their tobacco, and we are pleased that a buyer has now been secured,” Mr. Mwale stated. “This development should assure growers that their hard work, dedication and investment will yield the expected returns.”
He noted that the Board remains committed to working closely with industry stakeholders to strengthen market opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of Zambia’s tobacco sector.
“Our mandate extends beyond regulation. We are committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of the tobacco industry by facilitating market access, promoting fair trade practices and ensuring that growers receive the support they need to thrive,” he added. “We therefore wish to assure all self-sponsored growers that they now have a market for their crop and should proceed with confidence.”
Mr. Mwale further assured growers that TBZ is actively engaging both local and international stakeholders to have additional buyers.
“While we are pleased to have secured a buyer for self-sponsored growers, our efforts do not end there. The Board is currently engaging prospective buyers and exploring new market opportunities to further strengthen competition and expand marketing options for growers,” Mr. Mwale said.
“We want to assure all tobacco farmers that we will continue working tirelessly to ensure that every marketable tobacco crop grown in Zambia is bought. Our objective is to create a vibrant and sustainable tobacco market that offers growers greater choice, improved opportunities, and reliable access to markets for their produce.”
He observed that the development comes at a time when the world is commemorating World Environment Day, which is dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
“As the Tobacco Board of Zambia continues to champion sustainable tobacco production and environmental conservation, the securing of a market for self-sponsored growers serves as a timely boost for farmers and reaffirms the Board’s commitment to supporting every participant in the tobacco value chain.”
This is according to a statement issued by TBZ Corporate Affairs and Communication Manager, Lee Haamunji.
