By Gift Chiponde

Lilongwe, March 25, Mana: The Tobbaco Commission has announced that the 2024/2025 Tobacco Market Season will commence on April 9, with Lilongwe Selling Floors the first to open.

In an interview, the Commission’s Public Relations Officer Telephorus Chigwenembe assured stakeholders that all necessary preparations are in place to ensure a smooth and transparent trading process during the upcoming season.

He said other floors across the country are expected to follow, with Chinkhoma Floors opening on April 11, Limbe Floors on April 14, and Mzuzu Floors on April 28.

Chigwenembe further said that the opening of the selling season marks a significant event for Malawi, as tobacco remains the country's top foreign exchange earner. However, the number of licensed buying companies is yet to be confirmed, as the licensing process is still ongoing.

Economic expert David Nyirenda expressed anticipation for the season, noting that with Malawi’s economy heavily reliant on tobacco, both farmers and industry players are eager to see how the season unfolds, particularly in terms of pricing and demand.

James Mwadzama, a tobacco farmer from Nkhotakota in the area of Senior Chief Mwansambo, praised the Tobacco Commission for its timely decision to open the market. He emphasized that this is a critical time for farmers to make profits.

Mwadzama also urged fellow farmers to ensure that the tobacco they bring to the market is of high quality, advising against using tricks such as adding extra materials to increase the weight of the leaves.