The Tobacco Association of Zambia (TAZ) has called for inclusive dialogue among stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach to the Tobacco Control Bill of 2025.
The Association emphasised that the industry is already subject to strict global regulations, with its members fully compliant with existing laws.
TAZ Executive Director Phonto Mumbi highlighted the importance of the tobacco subsector in Zambia’s economy, involving approximately 38,000 farmers.
Mr Mumbi explained that all tobacco grown in Zambia is exclusively for export, and the subsector supports responsible trade practices, including measures under the Anti-Illicit Trade in Tobacco Protocol under the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
He further noted the contributions of tobacco farmers to community development, citing infrastructure projects such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Mr. Mumbi advocated for a regulated system to prevent the importation of low-cost cigarettes that could undermine local efforts and public health laws.
This came to light in Lusaka when some members of the Zambia Private Sector Alliance (ZPSA) held a Joint Press Conference on the Tobacco Control Bill (TCB) 2025, convened by key industry stakeholders.
The press conference by Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) and Tobacco Association of Zambia (TAZ) focused on the Bill’s economic and employment implications and presented a cohesive industry position to ensure informed reporting.
The objective of the press briefing was to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Bill’s potential impact on Zambia’s economy, employment, and trade.
Key industry leaders and experts highlighted the economic risks associated with the provisions of the Bill.
Players advocated for fair and informed reporting as well as a balanced regulatory framework that considers both public health and economic sustainability.
They further called for an inclusive stakeholder consultation process and the implementation of best practices in tobacco regulation.
