Agriculture Reporter

Zimbabwe is set to host the inaugural World Tobacco Africa Expo in Harare next week, marking a significant milestone for the country's involvement in the global tobacco industry

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The Expo is anticipated to have substantial benefits for the nation, drawing attention and investment from major industry players.

Chairperson of the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), Patrick Devenish, announced that the event would be the largest gathering of its kind, attracting key figures from the multi-trillion-dollar tobacco sector, including representatives from all tobacco-producing nations worldwide.

Approximately 500 delegates are expected to attend, showcasing a robust international presence.

"This is a historic moment for Zimbabwe as we host an event where the who-is-who of the tobacco industry will convene. We are also looking forward to seeing international exhibitors present the latest in tobacco processing technologies. This expo is a prime opportunity to forge important connections within the industry," Devenish stated.

Devenish emphasised the significance of the expo in advancing Zimbabwe's tobacco sector.

"Zimbabwe is renowned for producing some of the finest tobacco globally. The expo here provides an invaluable chance to leverage this reputation to meet and potentially exceed the Government's ambitious goal of developing a US$5 billion tobacco industry," he added.

The timing of the expo is opportune, coinciding with an increase in Zimbabwe’s tobacco exports.

Recent data from TIMB highlighted substantial growth in tobacco sales abroad.

In the first two months of 2024 alone, Zimbabwe exported 56.5 million kilogrammes of tobacco, more than doubling the 27.6 million kilogrammes shipped during the corresponding period in 2023.

The financial outcomes have been equally impressive, with the value of these exports soaring to US$369.6 million in 2024, a nearly 200 percent increase from US$122.2 million in the previous year.

Meanwhile, the World Tobacco Africa Expo not only serves as a platform for showcasing Zimbabwe's tobacco prowess but also as a catalyst for future growth and international collaboration.

The event promises to highlight modern advancements in tobacco processing and offer unparalleled networking opportunities for stakeholders.