A Tobacco Farmer, Brian Hapunda, has urged lawmakers to reconsider the Tobacco Bill because of its economic impact.
Hapunda emphasised that thousands of rural households depend on tobacco cultivation for survival.
He pointed out that stricter regulations could undermine farmers’ incomes and destabilise entire communities.
The Farmer explained that reduced demand would ripple through the supply chain, affecting distributors and retailers.
Hapunda remarked that enforcement against smuggling remains weak, making illicit trade a serious threat.
He observed that once legal production declines, black‑market operators quickly fill the gap.
The Farmer stressed that Zambia could face widespread unemployment if factories close due to falling sales.
Hapunda declared that the government must balance health concerns with economic realities.
He noted that ignoring the livelihoods of farmers would deepen poverty in vulnerable regions.
The Farmer asserted that Parliament should carefully weigh the long‑term consequences of the Bill.
Hapunda maintained that lessons from South Africa show how illicit cigarettes can destroy legal industry.
The Farmer commented that Zambia must avoid repeating such mistakes by protecting both jobs and communities.
