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Zimbabwe’s tobacco sector is set to host its first Zim-China Tobacco Expo, a collaboration between Zimbabwean and Chinese organizations aimed at enhancing market development and technological exchange. This event comes on the heels of impressive sales, with over 352 million kilograms of tobacco sold in the 2025 marketing season, surpassing last year’s record and generating over $1 billion in revenue, underscoring the industry’s significance to the national economy.
The expo is organized by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) in partnership with the Asia-Europe and Africa Joint Trade and Investment Promotion Association (AEA Association), an NGO aligned with China’s “Belt and Road Initiative.” The AEA Association will oversee logistics and exhibition organization to ensure a successful event.
By Ropafadzo Mashawi
TIMB CEO Emmanuel Matsvaire described the expo as a “game-changer,” offering local farmers and processors direct access to international markets and advanced technologies. He urged local companies to participate, highlighting the expo as a vital opportunity for industry growth.
The event will allow Zimbabwean tobacco producers to showcase their premium leaf to an international audience, enhancing the country’s reputation as a leading tobacco exporter. In return, Chinese companies will present advanced agricultural equipment, essential for improving productivity and efficiency in Zimbabwe’s tobacco farming.
China remains a crucial market for Zimbabwean tobacco, with exports to the country accounting for over 50% of Zimbabwe’s total export value to China, worth $729 million in the past year. Companies like Tian Ze Tobacco have long supported Zimbabwean farmers with inputs and technical assistance through contract farming.
Experts believe that strengthening these ties will create new opportunities for value addition in Zimbabwe’s tobacco sector, moving beyond raw production to local processing of tobacco products. The expo will also promote knowledge exchange on sustainable practices, including innovative tobacco-curing methods that reduce wood dependence, contributing to more eco-friendly practices in the industry.
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