TC downplays tobacco price fears
The Tobacco commission (TC) is playing down fears that the call for more growers to join the trade would result in proliferation of the gold leaf on the market which would have a negative effect on prices.
Recently the commission announced an extension of registration and licensing of Tobacco growers from the 30th of September to the 31 of this month following the continued expression of interest from more farmers.
According to the Chief Executive Officer for the Commission Joseph Chidanti Malunga, his office continues to receive requests from more buyers who are interested in the country’s tobacco.
He observes that the only way to satisfy the international Market is to encourage more growers to join the trade for more production.
‘’Apart from the buyers we already have, more are making inquiries and are interested to join the next marketing season which gives us more reasons to call for more growers and increase production to satisfy the international Market,’’ Malunga said.
Meanwhile, Malunga says his office it is keenly monitoring the weather conditions to ensure that the next growing season runs smoothly.
The development follows a recent announcement by the department of meteorological services which indicated that this year Malawi will receive normal to below normal rains.
He highlights that his institution is working with all concerned stakeholders including buyers in monitoring the situation to ensure that this year’s growing season is a success.
‘’we are aware of the warning from the department of Meteorological services and we are following all subsequent announcements and warnings so that our growers are also well informed as we head towards the season,’’ Malunga added.
Malawi’s Tobacco is one of the highly demanded on the international market and has been contributing significantly to the country’s economy for ages.