Leaf prices during the first week of auction averaged more than last year and should top USD 5 per kilogram (EUR 3.78) for quality as leaf from higher up on the plant begins to reach market, the Financial Gazette of Zimbabwe reported.

"We expect prices to increase to at least USD 5 per kg because the crop produced this year is of high quality compared to last year. It is a good start to the season and the weather has been favourable," Farmers Development Trust Chief Executive Officer Lovegot Tendengu said in a story posted on the newspaper website.
Average price after one week was USD 3.33 per kg compared with USD 2.73 last season. First-week prices cited in the article ranged from USD 4.99 per kg to USD 1.35. (pi)