Philip Morris International Corporate Affairs

Philip Morris International Corporate Affairs

This 6-page, 1986 internal memo reveals Philip Morris' interference in government affairs and legislation in countries all around the world. Written by Andrew Whist of Philip Morris, the memo recounts Philip Morris' interference in legislation regarding taxes, cigarette health warning labels, advertising bans and other public policies to reduce smoking:

"The government in Hong Kong responded to Philip Morris pressure by narrowing the differential between duties on imported leaf and finished cigarettes...significantly benefiting Philip Morris..."

"In Brazil, we achieved a significant tax decrease..." "...In South Australia, Philip Morris significantly watered down an anti-smoking tobacco products control bill..." "...In Quebec, Benson & Hedges pressed the government to overturn its ad valorem system of taxation on tobacco products..." "...Through [PM's] efforts, the GCC Health Ministers...delayed health warnings and maximum constituent labeling on cigarette packs... " "In Venezuela, we were successful in stopping a detrimental, self-regulating advertising code..." "...Our work in Senegal resulted in a new advertising decree which reversed a total advertising ban."

Other activities included hosting journalists on visits, thwarting a restaurant smoking ban in Australia, mobilizing cigarette importers in Italy to oppose public health restrictions on smoking.

Title PHILIP MORRIS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS Per. Author WHIST,A Date 19861217 Type MEMO, MEMORANDUM ; REPT, REPORT, OTHER Bates 2025431401/1406 Collection Philip Morris Pages 6 URL: http://legacy.library.ucsf.edu/tid/mjr25e00