Zimbabwe is regional leader in tobacco processing

Cut Rag Processors has completed a multi-million-dollar expansion that positions the Harare-based company as Africa's largest tobacco processing operation, a development expected to accelerate Zimbabwe's push toward value addition in the tobacco sector.

The upgraded facility, commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has the capacity to process up to 12,000 cigarettes per minute, significantly enhancing the country's ability to manufacture finished tobacco products locally.

The milestone comes in the wake of Zimbabwe recording an unprecedented 355 million kilograms of tobacco in 2025, valued at US$1.2 billion, cementing its status as a top global producer.

President Mnangagwa said the expansion reflects growing investor confidence and aligns with the government's industrialisation agenda. "This reflects the ongoing resurgence of Zimbabwean industry and the success of reforms aimed at improving the investment climate," he said. He stressed that reducing raw tobacco exports and prioritising local processing is essential for capturing more value domestically. "For decades, profits have gone to foreign manufacturers. Facilities like this ensure Zimbabwe begins exporting finished goods," he added.

Lesley Malunga, general manager of Cut Rag Processors, described the upgraded plant as a turning point for the sector. "This investment transforms our export profile. Instead of sending out raw leaf, we can now export high-grade cut rag and cigarettes, allowing the country to retain more earnings," he said. Malunga also highlighted that the facility will create hundreds of jobs while stimulating activity in supporting industries such as logistics and engineering.

Tobacco remains Zimbabwe's largest single source of foreign currency, contributing more than a quarter of overall forex earnings, and the new facility is expected to further strengthen the country's position in global markets.