Key Market Indicators
Belgian tobacco production is expected to drop to 4 million metric tons in 2021, a decrease of 84.9% compared to 2020. This is the lowest level since 2005, when annual production was down 50.4%. Belgium ranks 122nd in the world, behind Benin, which produces 4 million metric tons. India, Brazil, and Zimbabwe take the top three spots. Belgian tobacco sales are forecast to reach $109 million in 2026, a 3.7% drop from 2021's $135 million. This is the lowest level since 1995, when annual sales were down 1.9%. Belgium ranks 30th in the world, behind Zimbabwe's $135 million. Indonesia, the Philippines, and Poland take the top three spots. Since 2013, Belgian demand for tobacco has decreased by 4 points year on year. In 2018, Belgium was 22nd in the world for daily smokers aged 15 and older, behind South Korea's 15.4%. Russia, Greece, and Hungary round out the top four.