Batroun tobacco farmers hopeful of new prices

The tobacco growers of Batrun in the North said they were grateful the prices of the new harvest season were acceptable as set by the Regie appointed price expert Ahmad Hamseh, LBP12 thousand for one kilogram, a price which has not been attained since 7 or 8 years, according to As Safir newspaper this morning. Farmers pointed out that the expected profits calculated on the basis of the new price are anticipated at 50%, as per George Antun, who stressed that the current rates will entourage tobacco growers to continue planting what has become a profitable crop.” He thanked Hamzeh for the submitting a fair assessment of the quality of production,” as he put it, adding: “It is true that farmers in the South have received a price range of LBP13 and 14 thousand per kg and that is because tobacco in that area is reputed for its excellent quality; while the price for crop grown in Baalbek, Bekaa, does not exceed LBP11 thousand,” Antun told As Safir. It should be noted, that tobacco cultivation in Batrun has preserved it traditional characteristics, as in other regions of Lebanon. The most beautiful thing about it, the newspaper concluded, is the fact that it fosters cooperation and conviviality among the Batrun families. (As Safir, December 4, 2015)