LILONGWE: Tobacco sales have been suspended for the second time since they started at Lilongwe Auction Floors where growers protested a high rejection rate.

Auction Holdings Limited (AHL) spokesperson Rozita Tanamana confirmed the development.

“The rejection rate at Lilongwe market was as high as 75 per cent this morning forcing the suspension,” said Mrs. Tanamana.

Farmers at the Lilongwe market have also been protesting low prices being offered.

Mrs. Tanamana says the Lilongwe market will resume sales Monday next week.

Meanwhile, sales were also suspended at Limbe Auction floors on Thursday because buyers had bought all the leaf that was available for sale there.

During the opening of the Limbe market, tobacco was being bought at as high as $2.35.

Tobacco Control Commission says there is a low output in production of the leaf this year which has dropped by about 40 percent from 237 million kilograms last year to 151 kilograms this year. – Zodiak