With over 200,000 legal-aged smokers in TT, cigarette company Philip Morris International (PMI) is seeking to replace tobacco-based cigarettes with smoke-free products.

Speaking with Business Day, PMI country manager for TT and the Caribbean Sheldon Wood said the thrust was scheduled to happen over the next two-five years, once the regulations, scientific approvals and other necessary operating documents were finalised.

Although it makes tobacco products, the company has pivoted to make them safer to use.

“PMI is looking to move into a smoke-free future. Combustible or traditional cigarettes, as we know it...have harmful effects due to the combustion of tobacco. [...]