U.S.: Tobacco Production, by year
YearProduction,
in 1,000 pounds
2023432,452
2022437,775
2021456,423
2020372,877
2019467,956
2018533,241
2017710,161
2016628,720
2015719,171
2014876,415
2013723,579
2012762,709
2011598,252
2010718,190
2009822,581
2008800,504
2007787,653
2006727,897
2005645,015
2004881,875
2003802,560
2002871,122
2001991,293
  • Region: United States
  • Time period: 2001 to 2023
  • Published: Jan 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Mar 28, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Decline in Tobacco Production Over Recent Years

Tobacco production in the U.S. has been on a downward trajectory, especially evident when comparing the peak production year of 2001, with 991,293 in 1,000 pounds, to the most recent year, 2023, where production fell to 432,452 in 1,000 pounds. This significant decline illustrates a reduction of more than 56% over the two decades.

Record High and Low Production Years

The highest production was recorded in 2001, with a monumental 991,293 in 1,000 pounds of tobacco produced. In stark contrast, the year 2023 marked the lowest point in production during the observed period, with only 432,452 in 1,000 pounds, highlighting a dramatic shift in the industry's output.

Short-term Fluctuations in Production

Analyzing the data from the last five years reveals a pattern of short-term fluctuations in tobacco production. From a slight increase between 2020 (372,877 in 1,000 pounds) and 2021 (456,423 in 1,000 pounds), followed by a decrease to 432,452 in 1,000 pounds in 2023, these changes suggest variability in production influenced by factors other than a steady long-term decline.

The 2010s: A Decade of Volatility

The 2010s showcased significant volatility in tobacco production, starting the decade with 718,190 in 1,000 pounds in 2010 and experiencing a peak in 2014 with 876,415 in 1,000 pounds. However, the decade concluded with a much lower figure of 533,241 in 1,000 pounds in 2018, underlining the erratic nature of tobacco cultivation and market demand during this period.

Comparative Stability in the Early 2000s

The early 2000s demonstrated a relative stability in production levels, with figures consistently above 800,000 in 1,000 pounds annually. This period peaked in 2001 with production reaching 991,293 in 1,000 pounds, contrasting sharply with the more fluctuating and generally declining production figures seen in subsequent years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall trend of tobacco production in the U.S. over the past decades?

The overall trend of tobacco production in the U.S. has seen a downward trajectory, with a decrease of more than 56% from 2001 to 2023.

What were the record high and low production years for tobacco in the U.S.?

The record high for tobacco production was in 2001 with 991,293 in 1,000 pounds, while the record low occurred in 2023 with 432,452 in 1,000 pounds.

Terms and Definitions

Tobacco production refers to the process involved in cultivating and harvesting tobacco plants for their leaves which are used in the creation of tobacco products. These products include cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, and smokeless tobacco products such as snuff and chew.

The U.S. tobacco industry comprises companies engaged in the growth, preparation for sale, shipment, advertisement, and distribution of tobacco and tobacco-related products in the United States. This industry has a significant economic impact, generating billions in revenue and providing employment across the country.

An agricultural year, often known as a crop year, is the period of time which begins at the time of crop planting and ends at the end of the crop harvest. The period can vary according to the type of crop, and it does not necessarily correspond with the calendar year.

Tobacco crop yield refers to the measure of how much processed tobacco an area of land produces. It's usually measured in units per acre or per hectare. High yields mean that a specific cultivated area is highly productive.

Tobacco varieties refer to the different types of tobacco plants grown for their leaves. These include, but are not limited to, Burley, Brightleaf, Oriental, and Dark tobacco. Each variety varies in flavor, nicotine content, and adaptability to specific growing conditions.

Flue-cured tobacco, also known as Brightleaf tobacco, is a type of tobacco which is heat-cured in enclosed barns. The process involves carefully controlling the temperature and humidity to turn the leaves a bright, golden yellow. It's commonly used in cigarettes.

Burley tobacco is a variety of tobacco known for its light, airy leaves and mild flavor. When cured, it turns into a brownish color and is predominantly used in cigarette blends for its ability to absorb flavors and aromas.

Harvest season, in the context of tobacco production, is the time of the year when tobacco leaves are fully mature and are collected from the fields. The timing differs based on the variety of tobacco and geographical location of the cultivation.

Leaf grading is the sorting of tobacco leaves on the basis of their color, size, and overall quality. This process is significant in determining the market price of the harvested tobacco, as high-grade leaves command higher prices.
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