Croatian tobacco growers successfully completed tobacco planting and processing of last year's harvest

The successful completion of this year's tobacco planting season marks a significant milestone in Croatian agriculture, particularly within the Slavonia and Podravina regions. Over 1,900 hectares of agricultural land have been prepared and planted with tobacco, spread across four counties in these areas. This achievement was made possible due to favorable weather conditions and meticulous preparation efforts by both producers and the company Hrvatski duhani. More than 240 local producers collaborated with Hrvatski duhani to plant the crop on their fields, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. In parallel with the conclusion of this year’s planting season, the processing of last year’s harvest has also been completed in the company’s facilities.

This dual accomplishment highlights the efficiency and coordination between Hrvatski duhani and its partners. The company emphasized its commitment to maintaining a stable and predictable environment for production, focusing on profitability and competitiveness of domestic tobacco production. According to Aleksandra Grigić, President of the Board of Directors at Hrvatski duhani, the company continues to support its cooperators in achieving long-term sustainability in the cultivation of this important crop. Her statement underscores the strategic direction of Hrvatski duhani, which aims to ensure the continued viability of domestic tobacco farming while promoting responsible practices and environmental stewardship.

Over the past seven years, Hrvatski duhani has significantly increased the purchase price of tobacco by 75 percent, reflecting a strong investment in supporting local farmers. Additionally, the company has initiated a major investment cycle aimed at modernizing and automating its production processes. Between 2018 and 2025, Hrvatski duhani invested over 12.6 million euros into upgrading its infrastructure, resulting in more than 70 percent of the land under tobacco being harvested mechanically today. This advancement has improved the efficiency of production for growers, stabilized yields, and reduced labor costs. These improvements are part of a broader effort to enhance productivity and reduce operational expenses.

Another notable development is the progress made in irrigation systems. Utilizing a drip irrigation system, nearly 40 percent of the total area under tobacco cultivation is now irrigated. This figure far exceeds the national average for irrigated agricultural land, which is estimated at around two percent. Such advancements contribute to better water management and more sustainable farming practices, especially in regions where water scarcity can impact crop yields. The implementation of these irrigation techniques demonstrates Hrvatski duhani’s focus on innovation and resource optimization in agricultural production.

In addition to technological upgrades, Hrvatski duhani collaborates closely with tobacco producers to implement good agricultural practices and initiatives aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. A particular emphasis is placed on protecting workers' health and safety, responsible use of pesticides, and sustainable waste management. The company supports activities such as green manuring, recycling seed trays, and safe disposal of growth regulators packaging, all of which contribute to soil preservation and environmental protection. These measures reflect a comprehensive approach to responsible farming that balances economic goals with ecological considerations.

Looking ahead, the success of this year’s planting and processing operations sets a positive tone for future seasons. With ongoing investments in technology and sustainable practices, Hrvatski duhani appears committed to strengthening the domestic tobacco industry. As the company continues to work with its partners, the focus will likely remain on enhancing productivity, ensuring fair compensation for producers, and maintaining high standards of environmental responsibility. The integration of advanced technologies and sustainable methods suggests that the future of tobacco cultivation in Croatia could become even more resilient and efficient.