Tobacco farmers have been forced to cut production by 16% following a dry spell and other reasons. This will also result in lower export receipts next year the Herald reports.
This was revealed by tobacco grower statistics that show a 16% decline in registrations for the 2019/2020 season. The TIMB CEO Andrew Matibiri was qouted by the Herald saying the decline may be temporary:
There is a -16 percent variance over the same period last year, We believe this is transitory as more are expected to register as they plant their crops in the fields.
Some farmers that spoke to the publication have however announced their retirement from tobacco farming as they are now venturing into other crops. According to the publication, the RBZ governor is on record saying forex generated from Tobacco sales is enough to import fuel for a greater part of the year.
More: The Herald