Tobacco Board of Zambia (TBZ) has disclosed that the tobacco industry recorded a remarkable performance in the first quarter of 2026.
According to the Board, the industry recorded an increase in the number of registered growers from 42,000 last season to 46,000 this season.
Giving his brief at the end of the quarter, TBZ Executive Director, Robert Mwale, expressed optimism about the industry’s performance.
Mr. Mwale indicated that the rainfall pattern was also good, necessitating a good harvest.
He noted that the rain-fed crop has also done well, with isolated cases of hailstorms.
“We are happy that the rainfall pattern has been excellent, and this is particularly good for a good harvest, especially for the rain-fed crop,” Mr. Mwale stated.
He urged stakeholders in the industry to continue pushing the agenda and working hard to sustain the growth.
Mr. Mwale said tobacco buyers are ready to purchase the crop, with 16 licensed tobacco buyers and 25 licensed sales floors.
“This means that there is more than enough capacity to buy the crop, and we have decentralized the sales floors to ensure that we capture all our growers and that they should not travel long distances,” he added.
He assured all growers that their crop will be bought, therefore, the need for them to take advantage of the competitive prices.
Last week, TBZ announced that the official marketing of the season will commence on April 13, 2026.
This is according to a statement issued by TBZ Corporate Affairs and Communication Manager, Lee Haamunji.
