Zimbabwe’s tobacco farmers are growing increasingly frustrated over the widening gap between production costs and market earnings. Despite a promising yield this season, many farmers feel shortchanged as prices at auction floors remain low while input costs continue to soar.

Many growers have voiced concerns that the prevailing pricing model does not reflect the financial investment required to produce high-quality tobacco. With rising costs of fertilizers, chemicals and labor, farmers say their earnings are barely enough to break even. Some have accused middlemen and contractors of reaping the most benefits while leaving primary producers struggling.

A seasoned farmer from Karoi lamented how the high cost of borrowing and inflationary pressures are making it difficult to sustain operations. “By the time we receive our payments, much of it goes to repaying loans. We need a pricing model that rewards our effort and ensures profitability,” he said.

The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has acknowledged farmer grievances and assured stakeholders that discussions are underway to address pricing concerns. However, many farmers argue that without immediate policy interventions, the sustainability of tobacco farming is at risk.

Some experts have proposed reviewing the tobacco contract farming system, which currently dominates the industry. While contract farming provides financial support and input supplies, critics argue that it gives merchants excessive control over pricing, leaving farmers with little bargaining power. Calls for a more transparent pricing mechanism and improved farmer protection continue to grow.

With Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry being a key driver of foreign currency earnings, a resolution to pricing disputes is essential to maintain production levels and ensure the viability of the sector. As negotiations continue, farmers remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed before the next season begins.