By Chisomo Phiri
Minister of Agriculture Sam Kawale on Monday opened Limbe tobacco market in Blantyre,where the highest green leaf price reached $ 3.25 cents per kilogram.
In his speech,Kawale highlighted the industry’s strength and resilience, crediting President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s leadership for the sector’s success.
The minister said under President Chakwera’s administration,Malawi’s tobacco sector is experiencing a renaissance, with buyers committing to offer competitive prices.
He emphasized that meticulous grading and adherence to quality standards are crucial for unlocking opportunities and commanding premium prices.
Kawale also stressed the importance of collaboration and striving for excellence and unity among stakeholders.
Said Kawale:”President Chakwera’s policies focus on fair pricing, market transparency, and enhanced support for farmers, laying a robust foundation for sustainable growth.
“The tobacco industry is expected to continue growing, with 11 companies participating in the 2024/2025 selling season.
“Production is projected to increase from 135 million kilograms last year to 170 million kilograms this year.”
On his part,President of the Tobacco Association of Malawi (TAMA) Farmers Trust, Abiel Kalima Banda, thanked the government for its efforts to ensure farmers benefit from their produce.
Banda appealed to fellow farmers to prioritize growing high-quality tobacco, emphasizing the need to avoid child labor and maintain international standards.
A total of 2,500 bales were sold from both auction and contract farmers.
