Zimbabwe exports almost 99 percent of the crop produced to 69 different countries and stands as the world's second largest flue-cured exporter.
The tobacco produced is sold by free and unfettered auction on floors known to be the largest in the world. The first tobacco auction was held in 1920 and the selling season runs from April to October.
The country produces three types of tobacco - flue-cured, burley and a small amount of oriental.
The industry is the single largest employer of skilled and semi-skilled labour and tobacco growers produce a significant percentage of the nation's staple food. The 1993 season witnessed the survival of the industry through one of the most critical periods in its distinguished history.
The adverse effects of the 1991/92 drought season exacerbated the shock of the prices at the start of the 1993 selling season. Trends which had characterised the 1992 selling season continued into 1993.
Prices reflected a world over-supply situation, the magnitude of which had not been fully appreciated. A reduced crop for 1994 was recommended, with the emphasis on quality. It had been noted that the over-supply situation was not as evident in the quality segment of the market. Zimbabwe's production was trimmed from 218 million kg to just below 170 million kg. Growers produced a good quality crop which was commensurate with the prices paid. In the 1994 season 169,2 million kg were sold at an average price of Z$13,80 (up from $8,02 in1993). This brought in Z$2,3 billion in foreign currency (US$292 004 987).
For the 1995 season a moderate increase of 7,5 percent in crop size has been recommended, bringing the crop size up to around 190 million kg. The emphasis is again on quality. This is what Zimbabwean tobacco is famous for, and what the growers aim for in order to retain their position as world market leaders.