A sales weekly report released by the Tobacco Commission (TC) says that in the second week of the tobacco market, prices spiked by 22%, attributed to the commencement of Flue Cured tobacco sales reaching as high as $4.20 per kilogram.

The news follows as TC chief executive officer Kayisi Sadala said the commission is expectant of improved sales due to quality leaf being brought on the market and better sales. “Generally, quality is better than last year. Buyers are offering better prices on contract than last season at the same time.” said Sadala.

Tobacco Association of Malawi (Tama) Chief Executive Officer, Felix Thole, also remarked that this year’s outlook remains positive, where the sales are concerned. On the other hand though,  buyers rejected 50% of the tobacco growers offered for sale and gave even lower prices for the accepted leaf at the opening of sales at Mzuzu Floors yesterday. Sadala said although faced with some teething challenges, the secret bidding system has created competition on the market. He said he is hopeful that prices will pick up and that rejection rate will drop as the market progresses and more buyers come in.