Over 30 Million Smokers in Myanmar, Study Says

Source from:  Asia News Network  12/05/2013

A government study has revealed that nearly 50 per cent - or 30 million citizens over the age of 15 - smoked cigarettes daily, according to a workshop aimed at preventing tobacco use.

Although authorities have not disclosed the exact of number of cigarette factories across the country, Myanmar is manufacturing many cheap brands, especially in border areas, for export markets.

The most prominent local brands are Duya Gold, Red Ruby, Blue Diamond and Golden Eagle which cost between 300 and 700 Kyat a pack (US$0.30 - US$ 0.70).

Foreign-owned companies are now working with local producers to produce famous brand names such as Lucky Strike, State Express, 555, Marlboro, Rothmans Pall Mall, Camel, Benson and Hedges and Mild Seven.

Authorities have allowed the import of alcohol, beer, wine and cigarettes with the permission of Ministry of Hotel and Tourism to boost tourism. However, such imported goods are sold only in restricted areas in hotels and duty-free shops.

The production of cheroots - or traditional cigars - has declined since 1995 from over 3 billion to 2 billion annually. Over 3 billion cigarettes are produced every year in Myanmar, making the total cheroot and cigarettes production rate over 5 billion per year. Enditem