KT&G to Enhance Competition in Eurasia with Uzbekistan Expansion.

Jan.14

KT&G to establish legal entity in Uzbekistan to enhance competitiveness in Eurasian market, following successful localization efforts.

According to a report by N. News on January 13th, Korean Tobacco (referred to as "KT&G" hereafter) announced plans to establish a corporate entity in Uzbekistan, aiming to enhance their competitive edge in the Eurasian region.

Previously, KT&G had established an office in Uzbekistan in 2023 and exported localized products of the ultra-slim cigarette brand "ESSE". In 2024, sales of seven "ESSE" products in Uzbekistan totaled 270 million units, with the best-selling product "Esse Change" accounting for 64% of the exports.

By transforming its office in Uzbekistan into a legal entity, KT&G plans to enhance its long-term competitiveness in the Eurasian region. The company also plans to increase its local workforce by more than fourfold and establish a more comprehensive sales network to strengthen its market position.

On the other hand, KT&G established regional CICs (Corporate Independent Companies) in the Eurasia and Asia-Pacific regions last year. Currently, KT&G operates in 132 countries worldwide with 6 sales corporations and 3 offices. KT&G stated that it will continue to strengthen its direct business system to enhance profitability.

A representative from KT&G stated that establishing a legal entity in Uzbekistan is part of their continued goal to become a "global top-tier" company, following the establishment of a legal entity in Kazakhstan in 2023. This move is also part of their investment and innovation strategy. KT&G plans to drive global business growth by strengthening their local business systems in the future.

References:

[1] KT&G, 우즈베키스탄 법인 설립…'유라시아 시장 경쟁력 강화'

Also Read:

[1] KT&G Accelerates Overseas Expansion Through ESSE and RAISON Brands

[2] ITM Semiconductor Co..Ltd to Develop E-cigarette Devices for KT&G

[3] KT&G Accelerates Expansion Plans in Eurasian Market by 2025

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

Ireland to Impose EU’s Highest Tax on Vape E-Liquids: €0.50 per ml, Effective Nov. 1

From Nov. 1, Ireland will levy €0.50/ml on all e-liquids and tighten rules—including a disposable ban; advocates warn this could hinder quitting amid a missed 2025 target.

Oct.21 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Co-op Faces Backlash Over Vape Promotion Strategy Post-Cyberattack

The Guardian reports that UK retailer Co-op is ramping up vape promotions to recover sales lost after an April cyberattack. Internal documents cite a £1M weekly sales gap and 100,000 fewer transactions. Staff say the move contradicts Co-op’s “ethical retail” image, as the government prepares to ban vape ads under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

Oct.28 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Bremen Sees Active Illicit Trade in E-Cigarettes and Nicotine Pouches; Regulators Say ‘Nearly Every Inspection Finds Violations’

Bremen’s state government warns of increasingly active illicit trade in e-cigarettes, snus, and nicotine pouches. Enforcement reports “violations in nearly every inspection,” with some disposable vapes exceeding Germany’s 2 ml e-liquid cap. Since 2024, authorities have recorded 54 violations in 255 checks, concentrated around the central station district and city center.

Oct.10 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Operation Shutdown in South Australia closes 71 illegal tobacco and e-cigarette stores, confiscates over $4.2 million worth of products

South Australia cracked down on illegal tobacco and e-cigarette sales, closed 71 illegal stores, and seized A$4.2 million (about US$2.77 million) worth of products.