Big Tobacco’s Global Reach on Social Media
In Uruguay, the researchers interviewed several ambassadors paid to post by Wasabi, a public relations firm working for Philip Morris International.
Corey Henry, a spokesman for Philip Morris International, said that none of the company’s marketing is aimed at recruiting new smokers, and that promotions include health warnings. He also said that no digital programs were conducted in Brazil this year.
He said the company’s Uruguay affiliate uses digital programs to “research trends among current adult smokers,” not to market cigarettes.
“As we transform our business toward a smoke-free future, we remain focused on maintaining our leadership of the combustible tobacco category outside China and the U.S.,” Mr. Henry said.
