A report by RBM Monetary Policy Report has said this year’s tobacco revenue at $303.5 million (about K225 billion), which is lower compared to $337.5 million (about K250 billion) earned in 2018, representing 11% dip.

The Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) attributed its projection poor prices being offered by buyers. On the other hand, the Tobacco Control Commission, now called Tobacco Commission, released results for the second tobacco crop assessment, which predicted 206.8 million kg, a figure that is lower by 0.68%, comparing to last year’s output. The third and final tobacco crop assessment will be released soon, as unofficial results show that the prior prediction has been lowered to 193.5 million kilograms (kg).

The tobacco market has suffered high rejection rates and low prices, as stability was reported in the last 4 out of 12 weeks of the green gold. The decrease in output has met with a lower demand by buyers, both factors reminding Malawi to diversify its crops. International Food Policy Research Institute (Ifpri) published a policy brief titled Malawi’s Challenging Employment Landscape: Any Signs of Structural Transformation, in which Malawi has been advised to diversify her agricultural output.