The northern region based -Mzuzu auction flour open on Wednesday April 23rd.
The second biggest market in terms of volume from Kanengo, was opened
a month after the season’s official opening by President Joyce Banda
on March 24th.

Speaking in an interview, the Tobacco Control Commission TCC’s Chief
Executive Officer Dr Bruce Munthali has since made it clear that the
pace at Mzuzu flour is expected to be lower in its initial stages.

“The Mzuzu market will start with 1, 600 bales.

“Expectedly, the market may start at a low pace as farmers bring –low
quality tobacco at the beginning of a season.” Munthali said.

Meanwhile, Munthali said 28 million USD about 11 billion kwacha has
been realized after selling 22 million kilograms in a month.

“In totality, the market is progressing well; we have the earnings of
about 28 million USD –about 11 billion kwacha from 22 million
kilograms of tobacco which is better enough comparing to 16 million
USD same time last year.” Munthali said.

TCC has, meanwhile, advised growers to be sending their tobacco to
authorized auction flours; Kanengo in Lilongwe, Chinkhoma in Kasungu,
Limbe in Blantyre and Mzuzu auction,- saying the organization is
fearing farmers may be sending their tobacco to wrong markets such as
agents and cross border agents.