By Timothy S. Donahue

Top Takeaways:

• Strong backing: Georgia tobacco producers approved renewal with 96.4% support
• Assessment unchanged: Rate remains at 50 cents per hundred pounds through 2029
• Industry support: Funds continue backing research, promotion and grower education

Georgia tobacco producers have voted overwhelmingly to extend the state’s tobacco marketing order for another three years, maintaining current assessment levels through 2029.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture announced on May 4 that growers approved the continuation of the Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Tobacco marketing order, with 96.4% support from ballots cast.

Under the renewed order, the assessment rate will remain at $0.50 per hundredweight of tobacco.

Funds collected through the assessment support research, promotion and educational programs related to tobacco production in the state, including initiatives that address agronomic challenges and broader industry issues.

The renewal will take effect upon producers’ receipt of formal notification and will remain active through 2029.

Georgia reviews its tobacco marketing order every three years, and growers vote on whether to continue the program and maintain funding for commission-led activities.

The strong approval margin signals continued support among producers for coordinated industry programs as growers navigate shifting market conditions, regulatory pressures, and production challenges throughout the tobacco sector.

The commission has historically used assessment funding to support grower outreach, research partnerships, and promotional efforts to strengthen Georgia’s tobacco industry and improve long-term competitiveness.

For growers, the vote preserves an established funding structure while ensuring continued support for programs focused on production efficiency, education and market support.