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Zambia’s tobacco production is projected to reach 80 million kilogrammes in 2025, nearly doubling the 44 million kilogrammes recorded in 2024, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.
Minister of Agriculture, Mtolo Phiri, announced the projection on Thursday during the launch of the 2025 Tobacco Marketing Season at the Lusaka Main Sales Floor, held in collaboration with the Tobacco Board of Zambia.
Phiri also revealed an increase in the number of registered tobacco growers, rising from 28,000 in 2024 to 38,000 in 2025.
“This significant growth trajectory is a clear indicator of a revitalised sector and reflects the confidence that farmers and stakeholders have in the tobacco industry,” Phiri said.
He added that the government had introduced a financing facility to address the high cost of production, particularly during climate-related challenges.
The facility targets all categories of farmers, including tobacco growers, and aims to make financing more accessible and affordable to improve productivity and incomes.
Phiri said government had also rolled out a nationwide strategy to promote mechanisation across agricultural value chains.
For the tobacco sub-sector, he noted, this would improve farm efficiency, reduce labour costs, and enhance output.
“Mechanisation is key to long-term sustainability and competitiveness in both domestic and international markets,” he stated.
The minister also commended the Tobacco Board of Zambia for its role in attracting more market players to the sector.
He disclosed that the number of tobacco buyers had increased from six in 2024 to 14 in 2025.
“This development boosts market competitiveness and offers growers better pricing and expanded opportunities,” Phiri said.
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