Innovation in Harm Reduction: PMI's Path to Progress

PMI by 2FIRSTS.ai
Dec.14.2023
Innovation in Harm Reduction: PMI's Path to Progress
Philip Morris International (PMI) advocates for harm reduction strategies to combat smoking-related health consequences, according to Branislav Bibic, VP of Africa at PMI.

According to a recent report by the foreign media outlet IOL, Branislav Bibic, Vice President of Africa for Philip Morris International, has stated that history has proven that civilized societies make steady progress through the advancement of innovation. He further explained that due to these innovations, improvements aimed at reducing harm in everyday behavior and activities have now become commonplace.

 

He pointed out that Philip Morris International company (PMI) advocates for the application of the harm reduction (THR) strategy to known smoking risks. He also emphasized especially that the best choice for any smoker is to completely quit tobacco and nicotine.

 

He stated that public health institutions, expert organizations, and the general public are increasingly using innovation to address the serious health consequences of smoking. For example, the US FDA has created separate channels for innovative tobacco products that are considered better than cigarettes and has approved their marketing as appropriate alternatives for promoting public health.

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

10,800 Vape Cartridges Worth USD 175,000 Confiscated in Maldives
10,800 Vape Cartridges Worth USD 175,000 Confiscated in Maldives
The Maldives Customs Service has confiscated the largest single shipment of vapes since the national import ban took effect in November 2024. Officials searched a sea freight shipment on December 4 and seized 10,800 vape cartridges valued at approximately MVR 2.7 million (USD 175,000).
Dec.11 by 2FIRSTS.ai
2Firsts Observations | Two Months After Launch, BAT’s VELO Shift Draws Attention for Non-Traditional Design as Some Users Call for Higher Nicotine Strength
2Firsts Observations | Two Months After Launch, BAT’s VELO Shift Draws Attention for Non-Traditional Design as Some Users Call for Higher Nicotine Strength
British American Tobacco (BAT) introduced the VELO Shift nicotine pouch in September 2025, featuring a hexagonal outer can and an oval-triangle pouch shape that departs from traditional designs. Two months after launch, the product is available in the U.K., U.S. and Sweden. Social-media feedback indicates the design has been well received, while some users are calling for higher nicotine strength.
Nov.06 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Complete Vape Prohibition Takes Effect Across Uzbekistan
Complete Vape Prohibition Takes Effect Across Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan has enacted a nationwide ban on the sale and circulation of e-cigarettes and related vape liquids, following the approval of a new law signed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The legislation introduces criminal liability for violations, with penalties including fines of 300 to 500 basic calculation units (approximately US$10,300–17,200), corrective labor for up to three years, or imprisonment for up to five years.
Nov.28 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Poland Plans Total Prohibition of Single-Use Vapes to Protect Youth
Poland Plans Total Prohibition of Single-Use Vapes to Protect Youth
Poland’s Ministry of Health has proposed legislation to ban all disposable e-cigarettes — both with and without nicotine — under a new amendment to tobacco product laws. The government aims to protect youth from nicotine addiction while reducing public health and environmental harm. Medical professionals largely support the move but call for balanced harm-reduction strategies.
Nov.25 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Malaysia CID Endorses Nationwide Vape Ban Amid Rising Drug-Laced Vape Cases
Malaysia CID Endorses Nationwide Vape Ban Amid Rising Drug-Laced Vape Cases
Malaysia’s Federal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has voiced support for a nationwide ban on vaping, particularly targeting drug-laced vape devices, to address rising abuse cases.
Oct.23 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Russian Duma Committee Moves to Embed Local Vape Prohibitions
Russian Duma Committee Moves to Embed Local Vape Prohibitions
Fedot Tumusov, First Deputy Chair of the Duma Health Committee, called vapes the “most dangerous and least controlled” nicotine product and said restricting them should be a priority. While refining a government bill, the committee proposes granting regions the power to ban vape sales. Committee Chair Sergey Leonov said the illicit e-cig market exceeds 60%, with new licensing aimed at cleaning up the sector.
Oct.30 by 2FIRSTS.ai