Economist Professor Lubinda Haabazoka says the proposed Tobacco Control Bill in Zambia is inappropriate for a growing sector.
He argued that the legislation would negatively affect the entire tobacco value chain, from seedling sellers to exporters.
Haabazoka said thousands of rural farmers in Central, Southern and Eastern provinces would lose their livelihoods.
He warned that cigarette manufacturers and related companies could face retrenchments if the bill is passed.
Haabazoka stressed that the government would also lose significant tax revenue from excise duties on tobacco products.
He cautioned that restricting the industry could increase dependence on social cash transfers for displaced workers.
The Economist further noted that foreign exchange inflows would decline as tobacco exports fall.
He predicted that illicit trade in cigarettes would rise, undermining both health and revenue objectives.
“Neighbouring countries such as Zimbabwe and Malawi could exploit Zambia’s restrictions by supplying tobacco illegally,” he said.
Haabazoka maintained that Zambia is not a smoking country and does not face a national crisis.
He suggested that awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of smoking would be more effective than bans.
“Prohibitive measures would only encourage unregulated consumption and harm both the economy and public health,” he said.
