Zimbabwe's Farmers Opt for Contract Growing

Source from:  tr.itsmyiq.com Aug 22, 2008 08/26/2008

Tobacco production in Zimbabwe could increase during the coming season as more farmers opt to grow their tobacco under contract with merchants. According to a report in The Herald quoting the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), about 70 per cent of Zimbabwe's tobacco could be contracted to merchants next season, with most farmers avoiding the traditional auction houses. "That situation may help raise production because farmers growing on contract generally receive assistance in sourcing inputs from the merchants," said TIMB chief executive, Dr Andrew Matibiri. "There is a shortage of inputs, particularly fertilizer," he added. Enditem