With the imminent arrival of the tobacco marketing season in Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Tobacco Association is urging farmers to initiate the grading process for their tobacco crops. Bright Bvukumbwe, the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Tobacco Association told Great Dyke News, that it is critical for farmers to prepare for the upcoming marketing season by commencing the grading of their tobacco crops without delay.
Bvukumbwe offered strategic advice to farmers, suggesting that they prioritize selling their lower-grade tobacco first, enabling them to focus on marketing their higher-grade crops later in the season.
Anticipating high tobacco prices at the beginning of the marketing season, he urged farmers to capitalize on this opportunity by promptly selling their lower-grade crops. This tactical approach allows farmers to maximize returns during the initial phase and effectively offset the expenses associated with selling higher-grade crops later in the season.Emphasizing a cautious timeline, Bvukumbwe recommended that farmers wait at least a month before selling their first-grade tobacco.
This deliberate pacing allows buyers sufficient time to acquire lower-grade crops, preventing potential repercussions such as diminished prices for the higher-grade crops.
Highlighting a concern for the safety of farmers and their produce, Bvukumbwe underscored the importance of employing trusted transportation services when transporting tobacco to the market. Given the unfortunate targeting of farmers by thieves during transportation, he stressed the need for farmers to take proactive measures to safeguard their valuable crops.
The combination of strategic selling practices and enhanced security measures is poised to contribute to a successful and secure tobacco marketing season for Zimbabwean farmers.
