TIMB Extends Deadlines for Tobacco Buying Licenses

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Writer

The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board has announced an extension of deadlines for renewing or applying for tobacco buying licenses.

This change affects contractors purchasing unprocessed tobacco directly from growers and those buying self-financed tobacco at auction floors.

The revised deadlines aim to align operations with the Contractors Compliance Administration Framework, a regulatory system designed to ensure fair, transparent, and sustainable contracting practices. Contractors are now required to sign this compliance framework before obtaining licenses.

The deadline for renewing or applying for a contractor’s buying license has been extended from December 31 to March 31 annually. Similarly, the deadline for renewing or applying for an “A” class buying license has been shifted to October 31 annually. A contractor’s buying license allows merchants to purchase unprocessed tobacco directly from growers they support with resources.

On the other hand, an “A” class buying license permits individuals or entities to buy self-financed tobacco at auction floors.

The changes are intended to address delays in distributing farming inputs, ensure compliance with minimum input package requirements, and prevent growers from receiving substandard or overpriced inputs. Additionally, the October 31 deadline for “A” class licenses provides applicants with sufficient time to secure funding for the upcoming marketing season.

Tobacco continues to play a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy, alongside gold. In 2024, Zimbabwe earned US$1.4 billion from exporting 243.3 million kilograms of tobacco, an increase from US$1.2 billion generated in 2023 from 235.4 million kilograms. However, production declined to 234 million kilograms in 2024 due to an El Niño-induced drought, down from a record 297 million kilograms in 2023.

The Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan, approved by the government in 2021, aims to boost production to 300 million kilograms and develop the sector into a US$5 billion economy by promoting local funding and enhancing value addition.

TIMB has urged all stakeholders to adhere to the new deadlines to avoid disruptions and to support the continued growth of Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry.