Tobacco

 
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Kentucky's Tobacco Industry

Kentucky ranks 1st in burley, fire-cured, and dark-cured tobacco production, and 2nd in total tobacco production in the nation. Tobacco is one of Kentucky's top 5 agriculture exports. In 2021 Kentucky burley tobacco production was estimated at 71.8 million pounds, yield was estimated at 2,050 pounds per acre, and harvested acreage was estimated at 35,000 acres. Production of Kentucky dark fire-cured tobacco is estimated at 29.1 million pounds, up 40% from the previous year. Dark air-cured tobacco production is estimated at 16.2 million pounds, up 21% from last year.

When Measured in 2022, there are 984 farms currently raising tobacco in Kentucky. In recent years, tobacco cash receipts have fallen between $200-$250 million, 3% of Kentucky’s total agricultural receipts, but will likely fall below $200 million in 2024.

Source: National Agriculture Statistics Service and Economic Research Commission & Dr. William Snell of University of KY

 
 

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