Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1545684
Tobacco Asia 65 (AN ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 45001:2018 & SA 8000:2014 COMPANY) • MANUFACTURERS OF HIGH QUALITY CIGARETTE FILTER RODS - MONO ACETATE, SLIM, ULTRA SLIM, FLAVOURED, FILTER TIPS FOR RYO SEGMENT. EXPORT ENQUIRIES WELCOMED. • EXCLUSIVE BUSINESS PARTNERS WITH KAYMICH - GLUING & FLAVOURING SYSTEMS, ARKOTE - KNIVES, COESIA COMPANIES (G.D S.P.A./SASIB/ MOLINS ), MAX SCHLATTERER - ESBAND TAPES, SCHWEITZER MAUDUIT (PDM/LTR), BOEGLI-GRAVURES S.A., BENKERT- TIPPING PAPER AND OTHER LEADING COMPANIES. • EXPORTERS OF CIGARETTES AND TOBACCO. EXPORT ENQUIRIES SOLICITED. • PROVIDE MARKETING SERVICES IN INDIA, NEPAL AND UAE FOR THE CIGARETTE/TOBACCO INDUSTRY. Emmanuel Matsvaire, c.e.o., TIMB. Credit: TIMB Ensuring inclusion in a digital ecosystem A critical challenge in Zimbabwe's digital transformation is ensuring that all stakeholders can participate, regardless of their level of digital literacy. TIMB has adopted a multi-channel approach, using radio, television, and print media to disseminate information. The use of USSD technology ensures that even farmers with basic mobile phones can access digital services. This emphasis on inclusion reflects a broader understanding that digitization must be accessible to be effective. The imple- mentation of digital systems in Zimbabwe has highlighted the importance of stakeholder inclusion and collaboration. Matsvaire emphasized that involving all stakeholders is essential to overcoming resistance and ensuring success. Looking ahead, the completion of the ERP system and the deployment of AI tools represent key milestones. TIMB's vision is clear set on a fully digi- tized tobacco sector where data drives decision-making, enhances transpar- ency, and supports sustainable growth. A digitally driven future for tobacco leaf The digitization initiatives led by Pyxus International and TIMB illustrate two complementary pathways toward modernizing the tobacco leaf business. One is driven by corporate innovation and farmer-centric design; the other by na- tional policy and systemic reform. Together, they highlight the transformative potential of digital tools in an industry long defined by tradition—and reams of cumbersome paperwork. But at their core, the two initiatives are about more than technology. They are about redefining relationships: between farmers and companies; between regulators and stakeholders; between data and decision-making. As these systems evolve and expand, they will shape not only how tobacco is grown and traded but also how the entire value chain operates in an increas- ingly digital world.