The most pressing challenges facing the Hungarian tobacco industry, including the fight against the black market, plant protection issues, and the latest technological advancements, were the focus of Continental Tobacco Group’s Open Day for tobacco growers. The event, held on February 6 at the Rákóczi Hotel, Camp, and Conference Center in Sátoraljaújhely, aimed to provide a platform for industry experts and growers to discuss these challenges and explore potential solutions together.
Continental Tobacco Group operates a uniquely vertically integrated system in the Hungarian tobacco market, covering the entire process of tobacco cultivation and processing. This structure enables the company to remain committed to mitigating market decline while preserving Hungary’s tobacco-growing traditions. The annual Open Day for tobacco growers plays a key role in this mission, providing growers with an opportunity to expand their professional knowledge and engage in industry dialogue.
The event was opened by Csaba Füzi, CEO of Continental Tobacco Corp., who emphasized the company’s dedication to sustaining and supporting domestic tobacco cultivation. He pointed out that despite declining market trends, Continental aims to ensure the long-term viability of tobacco farming in Hungary.
During the professional presentations, attendees gained insights into the most critical issues affecting the tobacco sector. Dr. Ferenc Domokos, Director of Criminal Investigations at the National Tax and Customs Administration, provided a detailed overview of the black market, the latest efforts to combat illegal trade, and real-world enforcement experiences. László Bujdos, an expert from the Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Government Office, addressed plant protection challenges in tobacco cultivation and potential solutions. His presentation focused on the specific protection needs of tobacco plants and the latest technological innovations.
In addition to expert presentations, the conference featured practical insights into tobacco farming. Tibor Orosz, Development Director at DOFER Ltd., along with tobacco growers Mihály Gál and Gyula Hornyák, shared their experiences regarding the mechanization of Virginia tobacco harvesting and current practical solutions.
Furthermore, attendees had the opportunity to hear additional presentations focused on improving cultivation technology, plant protection practices, and increasing yields. Bob Foubert, Business Development Director at Kreglinger Europe NV, and Dr. Lajos Frommer (Farmmix Ltd.) presented technological solutions for sucker control, while Tibor Rácz, a senior agronomist at FMC-Agro Hungary Ltd., discussed the role of FMC products in tobacco cultivation. Szabolcs Hornyák, representing Gran-Export Ltd., shared insights into the application of Adler foliar fertilizers.
Following the professional program, participants continued their discussions over a shared lunch, further fostering networking and knowledge exchange.
Csaba Füzi, CEO of Continental Tobacco Corp., reiterated that the company remains steadfast in its support for the Hungarian tobacco-growing community, as maintaining sustainable and competitive cultivation is a shared interest. He emphasized that the Open Day provides an excellent opportunity for growers and industry professionals to jointly address the sector’s challenges, whether it be curbing the black market, tackling plant protection issues, or exploring cutting-edge technological advancements. Continental Tobacco Corp. is committed to supporting the industry and strengthening the grower community in the future, making the continuation of the Open Day tradition a key priority for the company.
