The Tobacco Board has fixed the crop size for Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco in Andhra Pradesh at approximately 81 million kg for the 2026-27 season, a sharp reduction from the previous year's target, citing prevailing market conditions and the need to safeguard farmers' interests.

The decision was taken at the 168th meeting of the Tobacco Board held on June 25 under the chairmanship of Tobacco Board Chairman Chidipothu Yashwanth Kumar. Executive Director B. Vishwashree, Member of Parliament B. Mahesh, ICAR-NIRCA Director Sheshu Madhav, representatives of the Central and State governments, and other stakeholders from the tobacco sector attended the meeting.

The board reviewed purchase indents submitted by companies, exporters and other buyers, besides assessing domestic and international market trends before deciding the crop size.

Although the board had fixed the 2025-26 FCV crop target at 142 million kg, cultivation over a larger area is expected to result in production of nearly 236 million kg.

With sluggish buyer response during marketing and adverse international market conditions affecting growers, the board decided to substantially reduce production for the coming season.

The meeting also resolved to constitute a high-level committee comprising all stakeholders to recommend reforms in the auction system, procurement mechanism, crop regulation and overall marketing framework to strengthen the FCV tobacco sector and improve benefits for farmers.