Zimbabwe is expecting a surplus strategic grain reserve following a strong 2025/2026 summer cropping season.
Speaking during the Post-Cabinet Media Briefing, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Hon. Zhemu Soda, said Cabinet had received an update on the 2025/2026 Summer Crops Marketing Season and the 2026 Winter Production Plan.
“Based on the Second Round Crop, Livestock and Fisheries Assessment Report, the country is expecting a surplus strategic grain reserve ranging between 550,945 metric tonnes and 964,945 metric tonnes,” Hon. Soda said,
He added that Government grain stocks held at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) stood at 156,603 metric tonnes as of 3 June 2026, while an additional 70,865.60 metric tonnes were being stored on behalf of third parties.
“As at 3 June 2026, a total of 127,214 metric tonnes of crops comprising maize, soyabeans, sorghum and sunflower had been formally marketed, compared to 78,265 metric tonnes marketed during the same period in 2025. This represents a 63 percent increase in marketed crops,” he stated.
The tobacco sector also recorded positive growth.
“A total of 309.795 million kilograms of tobacco had been sold as at 20 May 2026 at an average price of US$2.51 per kilogram. This reflects a 14 percent increase in volume,” said Hon. Soda.
He added that tobacco exports had reached 102.50 million kilograms valued at US$642.61 million as of 4 June 2026.
On winter cropping, Hon. Soda said, “The targeted hectarage for wheat production is 125,000 hectares, of which 113,503 hectares have been planted to date, representing 91 percent of the target.”
He also noted that sesame marketing had commenced, with 17 buyers registered, while Irish potato production is expected to reach 243,850 metric tonnes. Barley production remains focused on supplying the brewing industry, with 7,000 hectares contracted.