MALAWI
Tobacco Control Commission (TCC) acting c.e.o., David Luka, says that despite low production, the quality of tobacco leaf has improved this year. According to Luka, this is mainly due to the fact that farmers are now using certified seeds, are properly monitored and inspected, and are told what to ensure so that their crop is of good quality.
In the 2016/2017 growing season, Malawi reduced its tobacco production compared to the previous years, but still managed to generate over 144 billion Malawian Kwacha.
Tobacco markets which opened in April and closed in July managed to generate US$199 million this year, after US$276 million and US$337 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively.