LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi has realized about US$237 million from 2018/2019 tobacco marketing season from 165.7 million kilogram at an average price of US$1.43 per kg
The Tobacco Commission (TC) told the news conference in the capital Lilongwe on Wednesday that the traded volumes, realization and average price attained are all lower than those sourced in previous marketing season.
The commission said in 2017/2018 the nation sold 202 million kg realizing about US337.5 million at an average price of US$1.67 per kg.
This follows the closure of the marketing season on September 27 from April 24, 2019.
TC Chief Executive Officer Kayisi Sadala described the season as a great success for a number of reasons including smooth markets (no serious disruptions), implementation of new Tobacco Act, improved farmers compliance as fewer growers complain on stolen or missing and tampering of bales.
“This is another successful marketing seasons following the introduction of new tobacco variety (FDAC), improved TC- media working relationship, improved stakeholder collaboration and managed illegal cross border trade due to controls on quota,” delighted Sadala.
He however quick to point out challenges that culminated the season including low prices compared to previous season, high rejection rate above 26% compared to 2018 season that was below 20%.
Sadala therefore assured the nation of another successful coming season as the commission will continue working hard to maintain the green gold industry strong.
