Philip Morris (New Zealand) Limited (PMNZ) has today reiterated its unconditional commitment to have cigarettes replaced by less harmful alternatives in New Zealand as soon as possible, following yesterday’s renewed debate on how to truly achieve a smoke-free country.

PMNZ General Manager James Williams: “New Zealand is leading the world when it comes to devising the appropriate, risk-proportionate regulations around smoke-free products, which are better options for adult smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke.”

“Let’s be absolutely clear: we are seriously committed to replace cigarettes as soon as possible and support regulation that accelerates positive change to the benefit of adult smokers, public health and society at large” Mr Williams said.

“While the best thing a smoker can do for their health is to quit smoking altogether, the reality is that many of New Zealand’s 600,000 smokers will continue to smoke cigarettes – whether they are sold by us or others. We believe the best way to achieve a Smokefree 2025 is to encourage all those who would otherwise continue smoking to switch to smoke-free products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, which is entirely possible if the right regulations and tax structures are in place,” Mr Williams said.

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