What happened: Department of Commerce review of the FCV tobacco market in Andhra Pradesh
The Department of Commerce, Government of India, conducted a field review of the prevailing market situation for Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco in Andhra Pradesh. A team led by Additional Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav visited Andhra Pradesh on 25 July 2026 and examined both market conditions and the auction process used for FCV tobacco sales.
The Department of Commerce delegation took three main actions during the visit:
Attended a meeting chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, with the Tobacco Board Chairman and Executive Director present.Visited the Tobacco Board Auction Platform at Vellampalli to observe ongoing auction operations and to review the auction process.Interacted extensively with FCV tobacco growers to collect first-hand feedback on prevailing market conditions.
In the meeting, discussions focused on safeguarding the interests of FCV tobacco growers and exploring long-term measures for stability in the FCV tobacco sector. After observing auction operations, the Department of Commerce delegation appreciated the transparent and orderly conduct of auctions by the Tobacco Board.
Additional Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav assured FCV growers that the Government of India is closely monitoring the evolving market situation. The Government stated that, in coordination with the Government of Andhra Pradesh, the Tobacco Board, and other stakeholders, the Government is actively examining appropriate measures to safeguard the interests of FCV tobacco farmers.