Shining the Light on Tobacco Industry Allies

Melbourne, Australia

Master Grocers Association (MGA)

MGA is a national employers’ industry association for independent grocery, alcohol and hardware stores in Australia. Its corporate partners have included British American Tobacco, Philip Morris and Imperial Tobacco. It has backed the tobacco industry’s lobbying against tobacco control measures including plain packaging, tobacco excise duty increases and raising the minimum tobacco sales ages to 21 in Tasmania.

Canberra, Australia

Australian Lotteries and Newsagents Association (ALNA)

ALNA’s corporate members include British American Tobacco, Imperial Tobacco and Philip Morris International. It was a core member of the tobacco-funded Alliance of Australian Retailers front group that campaigned against the introduction of Australia’s tobacco plain packaging laws from 2010-19. It has regularly argued in government submissions that plain packaging has not worked as a tobacco control measure and instead fuels the illicit tobacco trade.

Burleigh Heads, Australia

Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS)

AACS has a long history of lobbying the government and echoing industry arguments on tobacco control measures, including campaigning against Australia’s plain cigarette packaging laws and opposing tobacco product tax increases. AACS’s CEO and policy director are ex-tobacco executives, and its top tier members and sponsors have included Philip Morris International, British American Tobacco and Imperial Brands.

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FICCI)

FICCI is a business network based in Bangladesh. BAT Bangladesh, Philip Morris Bangladesh and United Dhaka Tobacco Co. Ltd are listed as member organizations. Tobacco industry executives sit on the board of directors and several FICCI committees. The FICCI has lobbied against tobacco control policies and suggested that tax increases have resulted in illicit trade.

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Prerona Foundation

The Prerona Foundation states that its goal is to “promote economic inclusion of marginalised communities, women empowerment and youth development through skills enhancement programmes,” and that its work is shaped by the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. The Managing Director of BAT Bangladesh admitted that the company created the foundation to increase the scope of its corporate social responsibility activities.

Islamabad, Pakistan

U.S.-Pakistan Business Council (USPBC)

The U.S.-Pakistan Business Council (USPBC) was founded in 2002 as part of the Asia Program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It states that it is “dedicated to the broad advancement of U.S. commercial engagement in Pakistan.” PMI Global Services Inc, a subsidiary of Philip Morris International (PMI), is a USPBC member, and PMI’s Vice President of External Affairs sits on the USPBC board. In 2015, USPBC lobbied against tobacco control measures including graphic health warnings and increases in tobacco taxes.

Karachi, Pakistan

Stop Illegal Trade

Stop Illegal Trade is a media forum which states that its aim is to create awareness of illegal consumer goods. Its website states that the financial support for setting up the site and all associated media advocacy has been provided by two companies, one of which is Philip Morris (Pakistan) Limited. Stop Illegal Trade’s communications have stated that increases in excise tax on cigarettes results in illicit tobacco trade.

Bandung, Indonesia

Koalisi Indonesia Bebas Tar (KABAR)

KABAR is a coalition of health organizations that has called for fewer restrictions on heated tobacco products and e-cigarettes and promoted the use of these products to reduce the health risks of smoking. PT HM Sampoerna Tbk; a Philip Morris International subsidiary and producer of heated tobacco products, provides funding to KABAR.

Jakarta, Indonesia

Aliansi Masyarakat Tembakau Indonesia (AMTI)

AMTI was established in 2010 as a “forum for struggle for tobacco farmers, workers, consumers, retailers and cigarette manufacturers”[translation]. It was founded by PT HM Sampoerna Tbk, an Indonesian tobacco company owned by Philip Morris International and other industry linked organizations. AMTI has regularly lobbied against tobacco control measures including a ban on cigarette and tobacco product advertising and increases in tobacco taxes.

Mexico City, Mexico

Confederación Patronal de la República Mexicana (COPARMEX)*

COPARMEX is a business association with over 36,000 member companies. Philip Morris International [stated that it] held a leadership role in COPRAMEX in 2021. It has lobbied against tobacco control measures including a ban on the display and marketing of tobacco.

Islamabad, Pakistan

Behtr Pakistan

The Behtr Pakistan campaign was launched in 2021 and states that it aims “to create awareness about tax collection in Pakistan, identify effective solutions to enhance tax collection and make the country progress.” It represents itself as a “nationwide public service, national interest initiative.” Behtr Pakistan was created by Pakistan Tobacco Company Limited, a subsidiary of British American Tobacco. Its website states that increases in excise tax have resulted in an increase in illicit trade.

Bogota, Colombia

Acción Técnica Social

Acción Técnica Social (ATS) states that since 2007 it has been “working with governments and local, national and international organizations to design and implement public policies, programs and strategies”[translation]. It runs a project titled ‘Nicotine Risk and Damage Reduction’[translation], and has promoted the use of e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and snus. Philip Morris International has admitted to having a contract with, and receiving advice from, ATS.

London, United Kingdom

We Vape*

We Vape is an organization set up in 2020 by Mark Oates, Fellow at the Adam Smith Institute (ASI). ASI has a history of accepting funding and working closely with the tobacco industry. We Vape has campaigned against e-cigarette restrictions in the U.K. and lobbied to ensure “harm reduction is front and centre” of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control COP9 process.

Ottawa, Canada

Less Harmful Coalition

The Less Harmful Coalition (LHC) is an organization supported by Philip Morris International subsidiary Rothmans, Benson and Hedges (RBH). It states that its mission is “To advance education and awareness of pragmatic approaches to less harmful substance use, mental health, and other harms impacting people and communities in Canada.” LHC has been linked to Outfox Communications, a company contracted by PMI to run an ‘Indigenous Harm Reduction Forum’ in 2019.

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

VPZ

VPZ operates a chain of e-cigarette stores in the U.K. and sells its own branded devices and manufactures e-liquid through a related company. VPZ has close financial links with Philip Morris International via its U.K. subsidiary Philip Morris Ltd (PML). VPZ received a £15 million loan from PML in 2018 to “to accelerate [its] store opening programme,” and a second £9.6 million loan in 2020.

Miami, United States

World Vapers Alliance

World Vapers Alliance (WVA) was set up by, and receives funding from, the Consumer Choice Center (CCC), which in turn receives funding from the tobacco industry. WVA has lobbied against the regulation of e-cigarettes and campaigned for their use as a smoking cessation tool. Investigations have shown that British American Tobacco (BAT) was involved in the creation, direction and funding of WVA.

Geneva, Switzerland

International Network of Nicotine Consumer Organisations (INNCO)

INNCO states that it aims to “represent consumers of low-risk, alternative nicotine products and to promote tobacco harm reduction on the global stage.” INNCO has received funds from the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (FSFW), including a grant to influence COP9 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Knowledge-Action-Change, a FSFW grantee, had a key role in establishing INNCO.

New Delhi, India

The Tobacco Institute of India

The Tobacco Institute of India represents farmers, manufacturers, exporters and other parts of the supply chain of the tobacco industry in the country. It was established in 1992 by the India Tobacco Company, Godfrey Phillips India and VST Industries Ltd (all affiliates of British American Tobacco and Philip Morris International). It has lobbied against the use of health warnings on cigarette packaging and for lower cigarette taxes.

Jakarta, Indonesia

Asosiasi Petani Tembakau Indonesia (APTI)*

APTI, established in 2000, mobilizes tobacco farmers to oppose and protest against tobacco control measures. It has frequently lobbied against increases in excise tax, and has spoken out against the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, urging the government not to ratify the treaty.

London, United Kingdom

UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA)

UKVIA was established in 2016. Its members consist of small e-cigarette manufactures as well as JUUL Labs and the four major transnational tobacco companies: Japan Tobacco International, British American Tobacco, Philip Morris International and Imperial. UKVIA has lobbied for the use of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool and against restricting e-cigarette advertising and promotion in Scotland. It has also lobbied against international regulation.

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Scottish Grocers’ Federation

The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) is a trade association for convenience stores in Scotland. Japan Tobacco International, Philip Morris International, British American Tobacco, Imperial Brands and JUUL Labs are listed as corporate members. SGF has opposed a tobacco display ban in Scotland, campaigned against plain packaging and lobbied against restrictions on e-cigarette advertising.

Stamford, United States

Concordia

Concordia states that it is a “member-based organization dedicated to fostering, elevating, and sustaining cross-sector partnerships for social impact.” Its annual events include a summit which takes place in the same week as the United Nations General Assembly. Philip Morris International has regularly spoken and led discussions at Concordia events since 2017, and has been listed as a “patron member” of Concordia since 2020.

Islamabad, Pakistan

Pakistan Alliance for Nicotine and Tobacco Harm Reduction (PANTHR)

PANTHR is a project of the Alternative Research Initiative (ARI). PANTHR focuses on “promoting innovative solutions for smoking cessation.” It lists the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World as a partner on its website and research publications and has opposed calls to ban e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.

Islamabad, Pakistan

Alternative Research Initiative

The Alternative Research Initiative (ARI) is an organization based in Pakistan that states that it provides “researched-based solutions in a variety of social fields, including health, education, governance, culture etc.” It has received funding from Foundation for Smoke-Free World since 2018 to conduct studies relating to the use of and understanding of “harm reduction products” in Pakistan.

Kyiv, Ukraine

Ukrainian Institute for the Future

The Ukrainian Institute for the Future has received funding from PMI Impact in 2019 to work on a project to research and engage with the public on the illicit tobacco trade.

Kyiv, Ukraine

National Organization for Retail Trade (NORT)

The president of this trade association, Bondariev Yurii Oleksandrovych, spent 16 years in senior positions at PMI Ukraine. The organisation has lobbied against tobacco control policies. It describes itself as a group seeking to lobby the government for better policies for business.

Kyiv, Ukraine

International Center for Policy Studies (ICPS)

ICPS is a Ukrainian think tank, working on foreign policy, gender equality, socio-economic issues, among others. It has received funding from PMI from 2014-2016, for gender projects with young girls in Ukraine. Both ICPS co-founder Serhiy Kischenko and some of his colleagues criticised progressive bill No. 2820 “On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine on the Protection of the Public Health from Tobacco Harm”.

Istanbul, Türkiye

Transparency International Turkey

This organisation has received funding from PMI Impact in 2019 to carry out an initiative to tackle illict trade, including tobacco. The project is said to focus on “research, advocacy, awareness raising and capacity building activities”.

Warsaw, Poland

Zwiazek Przedsiebiorcow i Pracodawcow

Polish trade association which has lobbied for looser regulations for various industries. The association has advocated for the introduction of e-cigarettes and against tobacco control policies in Poland.

Warsaw, Poland

Polish Confederation Lewiatan

Polish organisation with members from BAT Poland and PMI Poland. Its website lists the organisation’s activities over the last 15 years, among which is successfully campaigning against tax rises and other benefits for the tobacco industry.

Warsaw, Poland

Institute of Law Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences – ILS PAS (Instytut Nauk Prawnych Polskiej Akademii Nauk)

An academic institute based in Warsaw. This organisation received PMI Impact funding to research illicit trade in the EU. In 2019, the Institute of Law Studies organised a conference entitled “Combatting Illegal Tobacco Trade in the Era of Fast Change”. According to conference documents, the event was “organized by the ILS PAS presenting the outcome of research supported under the PMI Impact”.

In a statement the organisation said: “The Institute has been established over 60 years ago, we value our academic freedom and we would never allow or endorse any publications which do not comply with the standards commonly accepted in the academic world.”

Iloilo City, Philippines

ProYosi

ProYosi (“Pro-Cigarette”) is a Filipino smokers’ advocacy group campaigning against what it views as ever-growing discrimination and “oppression” of the country’s 17 million smokers. It calls itself the “Voice of Filipino/Pinoy Smokers”. ProYosi registered as a SEC non-profit organisation in February 2016. It has campaigned against taxation and other tobacco control policies in the Philippines.

Mexico City, Mexico

The National Chamber of the Transformation Industry (CANACINTRA)

The Chamber has lobbied in favor of the tobacco industry’s interest for many years. A senior member of BAT in Mexico is the Chamber’s representative for alcohol, tobacco, food and beverage issues.

Geneva, Switzerland

Eliminating Child Labour in Tobacco Growing Foundation

Launched in 2000 and funded by the four largest transnational tobacco companies, the foundation says it “pursues collaborative solutions” on child labour in the tobacco industry. Critics suggest that it in fact enhances corporate reputations and distracts from issues of low wages and cheap tobacco.

New Delhi, India

Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

The CII partnered with ITC, India’s biggest cigarette manufacturer, to create the CII-ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development in 2006. Domestic tobacco companies are members and ITC’s chief executive Sanjiv Puri chairs its advisory council. The CII joined the industry’s fight against mandatory pictorial health warnings covering on cigarette packs.

New Delhi, India

Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)

India’s largest cigarette company ITC Ltd is a Patron member of ASSOCHAM India and has a management committee seat. Tobacco company Godfrey Philips India is also a member. ASSOCHAM joined the tobacco companies’ coordinated fight against larger pictorial health warnings on cigarette packs.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

JHM-Pesquisa e Consultoria em Segurança

JHM Pesquisa has received PMI Impact funding for a project to analyse illegal trade and related crimes in South America. It has also organised events in Brazil with TRACIT on illicit tobacco trade. TRACIT is closely aligned with the tobacco industry.

Mumbai, India

Retailers Association of India (RAI)

India’s main retailers association was part of the network of allies mobilised by the tobacco industry to help lobby against proposed larger pictorial health warnings sizes on cigarette packs in 2015. The agribusiness/tobacco leaf and lifestyle divisions of BAT’s Indian partner ITC are members. Tobacco company Godfrey Philips India has an executive on RAI’s Northern Regional Council.

Hong Kong, China

American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong

It is one of the largest and most influential American Chambers of Commerce in the ASEAN region. Its members include JTI (since 1970) and PMI. Personnel from PMI have taken roles in several Chamber committees looking at illicit trade over the past ten years.

New Delhi, India

Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)

Cigarette manufacturers ITC and Godfrey Philips are associate members of FICCI, India’s largest and oldest business organisation. Two senior ITC staff sit on key committees. FICCI has lobbied against “over-regulation” such as pictorial health warnings covering cigarette packs. It also advocated for tobacco trade bodies and farmers to attend COP7. FICCI also co-wrote a 2017 KPMG report on illicit tobacco trade.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

The Brazilian Institute for Ethics and Competition (ETCO)

ETCO is a business lobby group co-founded by tobacco, alcohol, soft drinks, pharmaceutical, technology and fuel companies in 2003, the same year Brazil signed the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. BAT’s subsidiary Souza Cruz is represented on its board and provides an undisclosed amount of financial support. ETCO’s stated purpose is to combat tax evasion, smuggling and counterfeit goods. It has lobbied heavily against Brazil’s high cigarette taxes.

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industries (FBCCI)

FBCCI is a business organisation which promotes private sector interests in Bangladesh. British American Tobacco’s current chairman Golam Mainuddin is one of FBCCI’s elected directors for the 2019-2020 term. FBCCI is a strategic partner of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council.

Seattle, United States

Washington Policy Center

This U.S. free-market think tank consistently opposes new or higher taxes, tobacco taxes included. It does not disclose where its $3.5 million budget originates from, but it is known that Altria has provided funding since 2011, and as recently as 2019.

Lusaka, Zambia

Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI) lobby government on behalf of their members, including three major tobacco corporations, who “…have the opportunity to comment government’s plans in a very early stage and influence plans in their favour.” They have partnered with the tobacco industry to oppose tobacco control measures and for corporate social responsibility campaigns in Zambia.

Kyiv, Ukraine

Ukrainian Economic Freedoms Foundation

The Ukrainian Economic Freedoms Foundation is part of the Atlas network of free-market think tanks committed to low taxes and minimal regulation. It doesn’t disclose donors but has received funding from Philip Morris International as recently as 2021 and lobbied WHO on tobacco control policies.

Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw Enterprise Institute

The Warsaw Enterprise Institute receives funding from tobacco companies and is part of the Atlas Network of free-market think tanks. It publishes papers and analysis on social and economic issues, often opposing regulation. It has lobbied WHO against tobacco control measures.

London, United Kingdom

The TaxPayers’ Alliance*

This lobby group purports to be a grassroots campaign for lower taxes, but doesn’t reveal its funders and is a member of the Atlas Network. It has said that it has no financial ties with tobacco companies. Its personnel are linked to various free-market organizations. It has consistently opposed raising tobacco taxes, and Philip Morris International considered it an influencer in its opposition against plain packaging.

Springfield, United States

Thomas Jefferson Institute for Public Policy

Based in the tobacco heartland of Virginia, the Institute says it looks to give the state’s leaders thoughtful analysis on public policy. It has taken donations from Altria since 2011. Its analysis regularly concludes that cigarette taxes should be cut.

Washington, DC, United States

U.S. Chamber of Commerce & American Chambers of Commerce Abroad

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and its allied 118 American Chambers of Commerce in 105 countries represent U.S. business interests globally. The Chamber, which describes itself as “the world’s largest business organization,” counts tobacco corporations amongst its members and has opposed tobacco control measures across the globe.

Gloucestershire, United Kingdom

The Freedom Association*

Set up in 1975, this libertarian lobby group has regularly campaigned against tobacco control policies in the U.K. Key figures have worked with other free-market organizations which have known links to tobacco companies. The association does not disclose its funders but has previously denied tobacco funding.

Concord, United States

The Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy

Named after a New Hampshire politician, the center maintains opposition to tobacco taxes. It is opaque about its own funding, which evidence suggests includes donations from Altria since 2011.

Washington, DC, United States

Tax Foundation

Established in 1937, the Foundation regularly opposes tobacco taxes, repeating common industry arguments. Its latest finance reports show just under a third of its $5.3 million income came from corporations. Altria has been a supporter since 2011, but other donors are not disclosed.

Washington, DC, United States

TechFreedom

A U.S. free-market think tank specializing in technology and promoting minimal regulation of innvoation. Has lobbied on behalf of IQOS, and took money from Altria from 2016 to 2020.

Cairo, Egypt

The Egyptian Centre for Public Policy Studies*

The Egyptian free-market think tank was founded in 2007 and opposed plain packaging in a 2016 letter to WHO it co-signed.

Arlington, United States

State Policy Network

A network of free-market think tanks which regularly oppose tobacco control and other public health protections. The network’s financial links to the tobacco industry stretch back to the 1990s, and as of 2021 Altria is still a funder.

Arlington, United States

Students for Liberty*

An network for young libertarians which originated in the U.S. but has international offshoots. Students for Liberty has published articles attacking plain packaging and extolling the virtues of cigarettes for women. It does not declare its own funders but has launched the lobby group Consumer Choice Center with support from tobacco companies.

Dublin, Ireland

Retailers Against Smuggling

Retailers Against Smuggling is an Irish organization that lobbies for action to prevent illicit trade in the country. It has regularly echoed industry arguments on halting excise increases and is funded by the Irish Tobacco Manufacturers Advisory Committee, composed of JTI Ireland, Imperial Tobacco and British American Tobacco subsidiaries.

Albuquerque, United States

Rio Grande Foundation

Rio Grande Foundation is a U.S. think tank founded in 2000 and focuses on the New Mexico area. It has openly opposed a number of tax policies in the U.S., in particular on tobacco. The Foundation is a member of the State Policy Network, and there is evidence that it has received funding from the tobacco firm Altria since 2011.

Washington, DC, United States

Property Rights Alliance (PRA)*

Focused on protecting intellectual property rights, the PRA is an “advocacy project” of the think tank Americans for Tax Reform (ATR). The ATR has a long history of tobacco funding. The PRA has taken up industry causes taking a key global role in lobbying against tobacco plain packaging. It has most recently opposed e-cigarette bans.

Washington, DC, United States

R Street Institute

Split off from the Heartland Institute in 2012 over the latter’s public denial of a scientific consensus on climate change, this free-market think tank still shares a smilar outlook on tobacco control policy. It has opposed tobacco plain packaging legislation and supported deregulation on e-cigarettes. It has received regular funding from Altria since 2014.

Los Angeles, United States

Reason Foundation

A libertarian think tank which has received tobacco industry funding since 1981 and been a “national ally,” according to Philip Morris International. It has distributed pro-tobacco messages and opposed tobacco control policies as well as increased regulation of e-cigarettes through its various media channels.

Omaha, United States

Platte Institute for Economic Research

This American research group is focused on tax policies and government regulations. The Institute seeks to promote a free market, and has openly criticized tobacco taxes in the United States. It has received funding from Altria since 2013.

Islamabad, Pakistan

Policy Research Institute of Market Economy (PRIME)*

PRIME is based in Islamabad, Pakistan. Founded in 2013 with a libertarian outlook, it promotes a limited government approach. PRIME has opposed plain packaging at a global level and signed the WHO open letter against plain packaging in 2016 and 2018.

Washington, DC, United States

National Taxpayers Union

Well-established lobby group which campaigns for lower taxes and minimal government spending. Historically it has been close to the tobacco industry with Philip Morris and BAT both funding it. Lobbied the WHO against plain packaging.

Wellington, New Zealand

New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union

Although coy about revealing its backers, it is known that BAT has donated to this lobby group for at least three years. The Union has regularly opposed tobacco control measures and launched a Clear The Air campaign to promote e-cigarette use.

London, United Kingdom

Petrol Retailers Association (PRA)

Representing independent fuel retailers in the U.K., the PRA doesn’t disclose its members but has admitted previously that they include tobacco companies. It has lobbied against plain packaging proposals echoing industry arguments.

Arlington, United States

Mercatus Center at George Mason University

Based at George Mason University, the Mercatus Center focuses its research on how markets can solve social problems. It regularly opposes tobacco control policies and received industry donations from 2011 to 2018.

Washington, DC, United States

National Center for Public Policy Research

The National Center for Public Policy Research’s Risk Analysis Division says it considers tobacco and e-cigarette polices “from a free-market and science-based perspective.” It testified on behalf of IQOS and was considered a key ally of Philip Morris. It is a regular recipient of industry donations.

Durham, United Kingdom

Federation of Independent Retailers (NFRN)

The Federation of Independent Retailers (NFRN) (formerly known as National Federation of Retail Newsagents) was established a century ago to support independent retailers. It has opposed various tobacco control polices through lobbying, and while its member details are not divulged, it is known to have received tobacco funding for specific campaigns.

New York City, United States

Manhattan Institute for Policy Research

The Manhattan Institute for Policy Research is a U.S. free-market think tank which has consistently supported tobacco industry campaigns, from secondhand smoke to relaxing legislation on e-cigarettes. Evidence suggests that it has received tobacco funding since the 1990s until at least 2015.

London, United Kingdom

Manifesto Club*

The Manifesto Club is a small, free-market lobby group which campaigns, among other isssues, against tobacco control policies. It is linked to various other libertarian outlets and has teamed up with the pro-smoking group Forest in the past.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Libertad y Progreso*

This Argentinean libertarian think tank promotes market freedom and a reduced role of the state. Libertad y Progreso co-signed an open letter to World Health Organization in 2018 in opposition to plain packaging. It is internationally connected, and its allies include the Atlas Network, the Fraser Institute and the Cato Institute.

Madison, United States

MacIver Institute

A U.S. free-market think tank which has lobbied in opposition to tobacco control policies and in support of relaxed e-cigarette regulation in Wisconsin. The institute has received regular donations from Altria since 2014.

Midland, United States

Mackinac Center for Public Policy

Established in 1987 in Michigan, the Mackinac Center for Public Policy promotes free markets and aggressively challenges regulation in local government, including on public health. It has attacked numerous tobacco control policies, echoing industry arguments. It has received regular donations from Altria since 2011.

Brussels, Belgium

Let’s Demand Smarter Vaping

Launched under the European Union Commission’s “Citizen’s Initiative,” this campaign is part funded by Imperial and staffed by its registered lobbyists. The initiative, which lobbies for a relaxation in e-cigarette legislation, circumvents a mechanism set up by the European Commission to encourage citizens to raise issues of concern.

Santiago, Chile

Libertad y Desarrollo

Founded in 1990, this think tank seeks to promote free-market and libertarian ideas in Chile. Carlos Caceres, one of the founder of Libertad and Desarrollo, became president of BAT Chile in 2014. British American Tobacco confirmed that it provided funding to the think tank in 2013.

Tallahassee, United States

James Madison Institute

The Florida-based libertarian think tank has taken Altria funding since 2014, has opposed tobacco taxes and supported the introduction of the heated tobacco device IQOS in the United States.

Brussels, Belgium

Kangaroo Group

Set up in 1979, the Kangaroo Group promotes free trade across the European Union, bringing together politicians, academics and business people. Its members include senior representatives of the big four tobacco companies. It has been criticized for providing contact between MEPs and tobacco lobbyists, and echoed tobacco industry arguments around smuggling in the past.

London, United Kingdom

Knowledge Action Change

This London-based business describes itself as a “private sector public health agency.” It has received more than $1 million in contracts from the Foundation For A Smoke-Free World. It also organizes the Global Forum on Nicotine which has links with the tobacco industry.

Melbourne, Australia

Institute of Public Affairs

The Institute of Public Affairs is an Australian think tank which advocates de-regulation and has a history of opposing tobacco control policies. Philip Morris International and British American Tobacco have both funded the Institute.

Paris, France

International Chamber of Commerce

This Paris-based organization was founded in 1919 and bills itself as the world’s largest business organization. It regularly issues reports sympathetic to the tobacco industry and lobbied against plain packaging proposals. British American Tobacco, Japan Tobacco International and Philip Morris International sit on its influential Business Action to Stop Counterfeiting and Piracy (BASCAP) initiative.

Castelo Branco, Portugal

International Tobacco Growers Association

Internal tobacco industry documents show that the International Tobacco Growers Association was set up in 1984 to appear to represent the needs of tobacco growers worldwide. Historically funded by tobacco companies, including Philip Morris International, British American Tobacco, Imperial and Japan Tobacco International, it has challenged tobacco policies globally and worked to undermine WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control through its member organizations.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS)

Based in Kuala Lumpur, IDEAS states that it aims to improve public polices based on limited governments and free markets. It has received tobacco industry funding and has repeatedly lobbied against tobacco control policies in Malaysia, and at a global level. In 2019 IDEAS published an open letter stating that it would no longer be accepting funding from the tobacco industry.

London, United Kingdom

Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA)

One of the U.K.’s leading neo-liberal think tanks with a history of taking money from the tobacco industry and adopting tobacco industry positions on issues such as plain packaging. Has been listed as one of Philip Morris International’s “media messengers.” The IEA is opaque on funding, but evidence shows it has received money from BAT, Imperial, Philip Morris and JTI.

Jakarta, Indonesia

INDEF (Institute for Development of Economics and Finance)*

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (INDEF) is an Indonesian free-market think tank founded in 1995. In 2018, INDEF organized several events on how to protect the tobacco industry from tobacco control regulation in Indonesia.

Denver, United States

Independence Institute

The Colorado-based free-market think tank, which describes itself as an “action tank,” opposes tobacco tax rises and hosts an annual “alcohol, tobacco and firearms party.” The institute’s financial ties to the industry stretch back to the 1990, and it has received regular donations from Altria since 2011.

Winchester, United States

Independent Women’s Forum

This U.S.-based free-market think tank focuses on social policy issues for women. It has testified in favor of IQOS and has editorialized about “media panics” on vaping. Says that “women are the biggest losers from Bloomberg’s anti-e-cigeratte propaganda.” It accepted Philip Morris industry funding as far back as 1998 and recently received donations from Altria (2016 & 2017).

Chicago, United States

Illinois Policy Institute

The Illinois Policy Institute is a U.S. free-market think tank which promotes limited taxation and libertarian values. It has opposed local tobacco control policies and received funding from Altria between 2011 and 2019.

Accra, Ghana

Imani Center for Policy and Education

This Ghanian libertarian think tank, was founded in 2004. It has publicly opposed tobacco taxes and smoking bans in Ghana and challenged the link between tobacco use and lung cancer. Denies currently taking industry funding.

Washington, DC, United States

Heritage Foundation

This well-connected and vocal U.S. free-market think tank has repeatedly opposed taxation and other tobacco control measures, and has recently supported the introduction of IQOS in the U.S. It has a long history of tobacco industry funding, with the most recent evidence documenting funding from Altria until 2016.

Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong Against Illicit Trade

Hong Kong Against Illicit Trade is an advocacy organization located in Hong Kong. It focuses on illicit trade and has echoed industry arguments around the topic. Philip Morris International and the Coalition on Tobacco Affairs are amongst its members.

Boise, United States

Idaho Freedom Foundation

The Idaho Freedom Foundation is a U.S. free-market which opposes tobacco control regulation, mostly taxation. It has regularly received funding from Altria since 2011.

Phoenix, United States

Goldwater Institute

Named after the right-wing Arizona senator, the Goldwater Institute is active in courts and legislatures advocating free market approaches. The institute regularly receives tobacco industry funding and regularly campaigns against tobacco. It testified before the FDA in favor of IQOS.

Honolulu, United States

Grassroot Institute of Hawaii

The free-market think tank echoes tobacco industry arguments on policies, for example claiming that tobacco tax proponents “never advertise the hidden costs of such policies, which can include rampant smuggling as well as violence against people, property and police.” It has received multiple donations from Altria and has campaigned against raising the legal age limit for cigarette sales.

Chicago, United States

Heartland Institute

This U.S. think tank has a history of denying climate science and has also challenged the science underlying secondhand smoke and opposed effective tobacco control policies. It has a specific “Consumer Freedom Lounge” on its website to promote its thinking on alcohol and smoking. The Institute has accepted regular tobacco industry funding since the 1990s.

Santiago, Chile

Fundación para el Progreso*

This Chilean think-tank promotes free-market, limited government intervention, private property, and individual responsibility. It has opposed taxes on tobacco and other unhealthy commodities in Chile since 2015. It is opaque regarding its funding, but is part of the Atlas Network and has received financial support from them. The think-tank co-signed a letter to World Health Organization opposing tobacco plain-packaging in 2018.

Atlanta, United States

Georgia Public Policy Foundation

A free-market think tank which has opposed tobacco tax increases and expressed support for IQOS. The foundation does not reveal its corporate funders but evidence shows that it has taken money from Altria as recently as 2021.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Fundación Atlas 1853*

Libertarian think tank focused on free-market principles which co-signed letters to WHO against promoting plain packaging in 2016 and in 2018. It has received funding from the Atlas Network.

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

Fundación Eléutera*

Fundación Eléutera publicly oppose plain packaging on its website and co-signed letters to WHO against promoting plain packaging in 2016 and again in 2018. Fundación Eléutera mirrored tobacco industry in arguing, for example, for the need to protect free markets, intellectual property and brands. Fundación Eléutera has received funding from the Atlas Network.

Rosario, Argentina

Fundación Libertad*

This libertarian think tank was founded more than 30 years ago, with the purpose of promoting free-market values in Argentina. British American Tobacco was listed as a partner on their website in 2022. Other partners include mining companies, pharmaceutical companies and banks. It is funded by the Atlas Network and has strong links with the government. They co-signed a letter to WHO opposing tobacco plain packaging in 2018.

Johannesburg, South Africa

Free Market Foundation

Founded in 1975, this libertarian think tank has a long history of working on behalf of the tobacco industry. In recent years, it has defended tobacco marketing and opposed tobacco control policies in South Africa. It is a partner of the Atlas Network, and British American Tobacco South Africa has been a “senior corporate member” since 2000. Philip Morris International was also listed on the think tank’s website as a senior corporate member in 2013. Shortly after, information about members was removed from the Free Market Foundation’s website, and it no longer makes its donors’ details public.

London, United Kingdom

Freedom2Choose*

Freedom2Choose is a U.K. smokers’ rights campaign group set up to “oppose smoking bans and expose the myth surrounding second hand smoke.” The group denies tobacco industry funding but has been endorsed by industry-funded pro-tobacco advocates.

Washington, DC, United States

FreedomWorks

FreedomWorks is a U.S. libertarian think tank. It has publicly opposed tobacco taxes and lobbied in favor of the introduction of IQOS in the U.S. It does not reveal its donors but reportedly received funding from Philip Morris International in the past, and has accepted funding from Altria in 2012 and 2013.

New York City, United States

Foundation for a Smoke-Free World

Foundation for a Smoke-Free World describes itself as “an independent, private foundation formed and operated free from the control or influence of any third party” but is solely funded by Philip Morris International. It was established in September 2017 and has funded various scientific projects, but the majority of its money is spent on public relations. For a comprehensive list of the Foundation’s grantees, please visit TobaccoTactics.

Alexandria, United States

Franklin News Foundation

The Franklin News Foundation funds a network of right-wing media sites across the U.S., and in 2019, launched an offshoot, The Center Square. It aims to hold government accountable “with a taxpayer sensibility.” It has been receiving donations from Altria since 2013.

Hong Kong, China

Factasia

Factasia, a Hong Kong-based lobby group, promotes looser regulations of tobacco and e-cigarettes across Asia. It says it does not act as an industry mouthpiece. Philip Morris International is one of its supporters.

Guntur, India

FAIFA (Federation of All India Farmer Associations)*

FAIFA is an Indian farmers association which opposes the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in the country. FAIFA made a petition to the Delhi High Court against the convention and India hosting a key international meeting on it. The organisations said it was promoting farmers’ rights to grow tobacco and called for looser regulations.

Cambridge, United Kingdom

Forest

Set up in 1979, the “Freedom Organization for the Right to Enjoy Smoking Tobacco” repeats industry arguments on any topic while claiming to represent ordinary smokers. Historically, it has received a large proportion of its funding from tobacco companies.

Zurich, Switzerland

Digital Coding & Tracking Association (DCTA)

The Digital Coding and Tracking Association (DCTA) is a front group, launched in 2013 by the four multinational tobacco companies: British American Tobacco, Imperial Tobacco, Japan Tobacco International and Philip Morris International. The DCTA has promoted the industry’s tobacco tracking and tracing technology, Codentify, often without disclosing its relationship to the tobacco industry.

Brussels, Belgium

EFFAT*

The European Federation of Food, Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions (EFFAT) represents 120 trade unions across the European Union. Leaked internal documents from Philip Morris International have revealed that EFFAT’s tobacco lobbying activities were part of a larger, comprehensive and well-financed PMI campaign to undermine tobacco control policy. It denies tobacco industry funding. Some of its member unions represent tobacco companies.

Brussels, Belgium

EPICENTER (the European Policy Information Center)

EPICENTER was launched in 2014 and states that it is funded entirely by the Institute of Economic Affairs, which has a long history of tobacco industry funding. It is a collective of eight European think tanks, which provides a “free-market perspective” in European policy debates, on topics including public health. EPICENTER has challenged the EU Tobacco Products Directive. Philip Morris International listed itself as a member of EPICENTER in 2018 but has taken this down since.

Arlington, United States

Consumer Choice Center

This lobbying group was set up by the U.S.-based Students for Liberty in 2017, with staff in the United States, Canada and the EU. The CCC promotes looser regulation of consumer products in reportedly over 100 countries, covering, for example food and agriculture policies, food and soda taxes, food labelling, health care and tobacco harm reduction. CCC has received funding from Japan Tobacco International, who co-funded its launch event and is a member of CCC, and Philip Morris International.

Lima, Peru

Contribuyentes por Respeto*

Contribuyentes por Respeto is a Peruvian free-market think tank focused on promoting public-private partnerships and libertarian values in Peru. It opposed the tobacco control act in Peru, co-signed two anti-plain packaging letters to WHO, and lobbied for looser regulation of e-cigarettes.

Hoevelaken, Netherlands

Crime Stoppers International

Crime Stoppers International describes itself as a “global non-profit organization representing seven regions committed to support law enforcement efforts to prevent and solve crime by mobilizing citizens to anonymously report illegal activity.” They have collaborated with tobacco companies on campaigns around illicit trade.

London, United Kingdom

Centre for Policy Studies

The Centre for Policy Studies is a U.K.-based free-market think tank which has been active since 1974, including in opposing tobacco control legislation. The Centre is opaque regarding its funding but tobacco industry documents show that it has accepted multiple donations from British American Tobacco in the past.

Caracas, Venezuela

Centro de Divulgación del Conocimiento Económico Para la Libertad (CEDICE)*

CEDICE is a free-market think thank based in Venezuela. Among their allies are organizations such as the Fraser Institute and Cato Institute which both have long histories of links with the tobacco industry. The CEDICE itself remains secretive regarding its donors. It was among a number of organizations that signed a letter to WHO in opposition to tobacco plain packaging in 2016 and 2018.

Washington, DC, United States

Competitive Enterprise Institute

The Competitive Enterprise Institute is a Washington D.C.-based think tank, promoting free markets and limited government while opposing regulation, including tobacco control laws. Its ties to the tobacco industry go back to 1991, with the most recent donation originating from Altria in 2021.

Washington, DC, United States

Cato Institute

The Cato Institute is a Washington D.C.-based free-market think tank which was founded by Charles G. Koch. This libertarian organization, also part of the Atlas Network, has opposed a number of tobacco control policies. Documents reveal that Philip Morris listed the Institute as one of its “national allies,” and the Cato Institute has received funding from Altria and Reynolds in the past.

Jakarta, Indonesia

Center for Indonesian Policy Studies*

The Center for Indonesian Policy Studies is a think tank based in Jakarta, Indonesia, and a member of Atlas Network. It promotes free-market values and has promoted tax reductions and looser regulations, including in tobacco control. Moreover, it has opposed plain packaging in a letter to WHO.

Golden Valley, United States

Center of the American Experiment

The Center of the American Experiment is a free-market think tank based in Minnesota, and a member of the State Policy Network. It has received multiple donations from Altria since 2014, and has opposed policies echoing tobacco industry arguments, including tobacco taxes, illicit trade and smuggling.

Columbus, United States

Buckeye Institute

The Buckeye Institute is a U.S. free-market think tank based in Ohio. It was founded in 1984 as the Buckeye Center, in part by the Atlas Economic Research Foundation’s former president, John Blundell. The Institute has been receiving regular donations from Altria since 2011.

Regina, Canada

Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF)*

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) describes itself as a non-profit grassroot organization dedicated to lower taxes. The CTF was founded in 1990 and claims to have 141,000 supporters nation-wide. It openly opposes plain packaging and tobacco taxes. The group keeps its funders secret to avoid “retribution”. It is a member of the National Coalition Against Contraband Tobacco which is funded by tobacco companies and echoes their arguments on smuggling.

Portland, United States

Cascade Policy Institute

The Cascade Policy Institute is a free-market think tank located in Oregon and member of the State Policy Network. Cascade promotes limited government and opposes tobacco taxes and has accepted annual donations from Altria since 2011.

High Wycombe, United Kingdom

Anti-Counterfeiting Group

Established by British American Tobacco, the group has grown to more than 150 industry members, including tobacco companies. It has lobbied against tobacco controls on plain packaging.

Arlington, United States

Atlas Network

The Atlas Network (originally named the Atlas Economic Research Foundation) aims to cultivate a global network of free-market think tanks which, as of 2018, amounted to nearly 500. The Atlas Network has received funding from three of the four major tobacco corporations over the last two decades. Previously, board members have worked for, or had connections with, the tobacco industry.

Sydney, Australia

Australian Taxpayers Alliance*

Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance (ATA) is a lobby group which campaigns against tax increases in Australia. It has opposed increases in tobacco excise duties, as well as other tobacco control measures including import bans and plain packaging. ATA has admitted to receiving ad-hoc social media advice from a British American Tobacco consultant.

Arlington, United States

American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)*

ALEC is a U.S. free-market organization comprised of state legislators dedicated to limited government, free markets and federalism. It has openly lobbied against plain packaging of tobacco products globally and in favor of the introduction of IQOS in the U.S. It has received tobacco industry funding since at the 1990s, most recently from Altria in 2021.

Arlington, United States

Americans for Prosperity Foundation

The Americans for Prosperity Foundation is a U.S.-based think tank founded in 2004, with an advocacy focus on conservative and libertarian principles. It has opposed tobacco plain packaging and tax policies in the U.S., and has received funding from Reynolds American, a subsidiary of British American Tobacco, and Altria.

Washington, DC, United States

Americans for Tax Reform (ATR)

Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) is a U.S.-based lobby group which opposes all tax increases as a principle, but has also spoken out against other tobacco control protections such as plain packaging. Founded in 1985, ATR organizes the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, which asks all candidates for federal and state office to commit themselves in writing to oppose all net tax increases. ATR has been accepting tobacco industry funding since the 1990s.

Washington, DC, United States

American Enterprise Institute (AEI)*

The AEI, a U.S. free-market think tank, argues it is a mistake not to take money from tobacco companies when researching the topic – and it has happily done so since at least 2011. The Institute has testified in favor of IQOS before the FDA and argued that tobacco taxes cause crime. One of their most prolific pro-tobacco advocates is visiting scholar Roger Bate.

Brussels, Belgium

American European Community Association*

The American European Community Association (AECA), based in Brussels, was founded in 1981 by the British politician Roy Jenkins. Corporate members historically included BAT, Imperial Tobacco, Japan Tobacco International and PMI in 2011. As of August 2022, BAT and JTI remain members and former PMI employee Kristof Doms sits on the board of directors.

London, United Kingdom

Academy of Ideas (previously Institute of Ideas) *

The Academy of Ideas is a think tank that forms part of the pro-corporate libertarian network led by people affiliated with the defunct LM Magazine. It has previously campaigned against plain packaging rules.

London, United Kingdom

Adam Smith Institute *

This well-established, free-market think tank has repeatedly campaigned against tobacco control policies. The Institute also has a history of close collaboration with the tobacco industry, including financial contributions.

Sydney, Australia

Alliance of Australian Retailers (AAR)

Set up with the help of a public relations company and funded by tobacco companies. It lobbies the Australian government saying that it is the voice of 3,000 small business retailers. The AAR has consistently echoed industry arguments on issues such as plain packaging and smuggling.