Winston Cigarette Maker to Introduce More Brands in Philippines

Source from:  ABS-CBNnews.com 08/19/2013

The local unit of Japan Tobacco group, which makes Winston cigarettes, is planning to introduce more brands in the Philippine market despite higher taxes on cigarettes.

Manos Koukourakis, JT International (JTI) Philippines Inc. general manager, the company remains confident of the Philippine cigarette even with the enactment of the Sin Tax Reform Act last January 1.

He noted the law's impact was minimal, with JTI's market share falling 0.6-0.7% to 3.2% this year.

"We are not happy, but we are not devastated because we are expecting bigger loss. Our company, throughout the years, we will be able to maintain our current market share which is about 3%," he said.

JTI, he said, will continue to expand in the Philippines.

"One thing that is certain, our company is here to stay. There are many good efforts in progress to control this sort of consumption. We want to grow our business, we will probably invest more than what we've invested today," Koukourakis said.

JTI plans to introduce additional premiums brands in the Philippines, but not low-tiered cigarettes.

JTI Philippine markets brands such as Winston, Camel and Mevius (Mild Seven) as well as Benson & Hedges and Silk Cut. Enditem