Centre Reviews AP FCV Tobacco Season, Focuses on Exports, Reforms and Farmer Welfare

The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has carried out a comprehensive review of the ongoing 2025-26 Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco marketing season in Andhra Pradesh, with a focus on safeguarding farmer interests, strengthening the marketing ecosystem and expanding export opportunities.

A high-level review meeting was held in Hyderabad under the chairmanship of Nitin Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce . The meeting brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including tobacco growers, manufacturers, exporters, dealers, trade associations and officials of the Tobacco Board. Participants assessed the current market situation, procurement progress, export prospects and reforms needed to enhance the sector's long-term sustainability.

One of the key issues discussed was the need to accelerate FCV tobacco procurement and ensure that farmers receive timely market access for their produce. Officials examined measures to improve procurement efficiency and strengthen the overall marketing framework. Discussions also focused on facilitating exports and helping Indian tobacco gain greater access to international markets.

The review explored strategies to expand export opportunities across different countries and improve India's competitiveness in the global tobacco trade. At the same time, officials highlighted the importance of crop diversification in suitable regions , enabling farmers to develop alternative sources of income and reduce dependence on a single crop.

Several modernisation and reform initiatives were also reviewed. These included the proposed restructuring of the Tobacco Board , enhancement of benefits under the Growers Welfare Fund , and simplification of registration and regulatory procedures. The ministry examined ways to make services more accessible and efficient for growers and industry stakeholders.

Technology-driven reforms formed another major part of the discussions. Officials considered expanding digital services and introducing artificial intelligence-based grading systems to improve transparency, accuracy and speed in tobacco trading and marketing operations.

The Commerce Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting FCV tobacco farmers while strengthening India's export potential. It stated that coordinated efforts involving growers, exporters, industry representatives and government agencies would be crucial for ensuring faster procurement, stronger exports and the sustainable long-term growth of the FCV tobacco sector.

Speaking after the meeting, Nitin Kumar Yadav expressed confidence that ongoing reforms and collective stakeholder participation would help the industry achieve greater stability and enhance its position in global markets.