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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 2023 Kentucky burley tobacco production was estimated at 56.7 million pounds, yield was estimated at 2,100 pounds per acre, and harvested acreage was estimated at 27,000 acres. Production of Kentucky dark fire-cured tobacco is estimated at 19.85 million pounds, down from almost 30 million the previous year. Dark air-cured tobacco production is estimated at 9 million pounds, down substantially from 2022.

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. In 2023 all tobacco production was valued at $219 million.

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

 
 

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