The 10th edition of Philip Morris International (“PMI”)’s ‘Technovation’ event was held in Abu Dhabi in December 2024. The event brought together PMI senior management and policy experts, to discuss the transformative role of technology and innovation in delivering a smoke-free future.
The event showcased PMI’s commitment to science-driven tobacco harm reduction and progress towards non-combustible alternatives. The event also provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions on the role of smoke-free alternatives in moving adult smokers away from cigarettes, and on the potential of balanced regulatory framework to harness innovation and social impact.
PMI’s Senior leaders, scientists, and R&D experts highlighted substantial evidence of smoke-free alternatives, including oral smokeless, vapor, and heated tobacco products, underscoring their potential to significantly reduce the risks associated with smoking. Attendees also explored how advancements in technology and innovation could address the challenges of smoking and align with global sustainability goals.
Ali Takesh, Managing Director of Philip Morris Pakistan Limited, stressed the urgency of adopting tobacco harm reduction measures globally, stating: “At PMI, we aim to leverage innovations based on science and technology, to expeditiously reduce the harm of smoking. Science and innovation have demonstrated that smoke-free products, such as e-cigarettes, heated tobacco or nicotine pouches, can accelerate a decline in cigarette sales compared to traditional tobacco control measures alone. The global smoking problem demands effective solutions, and success stories from countries like Sweden and Japan validate the potential of these strategies. We urge all stakeholders to support these efforts by embracing evidence-based policies.”
“We are doing our part. But encouraging people who smoke to switch to better alternatives if they do not quit requires everyone to play their role,” added Fred de Wilde, President, SSEA, CIS & MEA Region at Philip Morris International. “Governments, for example, can set regulatory frameworks that accelerate change and encourage innovation. This is why we are here, sharing our experiences and science transparently to foster this debate. I hope we can count on your support in this fascinating journey that will have a positive impact on public health in this part of the world.”
“Better alternatives to cigarettes exist, and scientific data support their potential to be less harmful. The missing piece of the puzzle is the collective effort of governments, the public health community, our industry, and civil society to make these alternatives accessible to adult smokers who do not quit” said Tommaso Di Giovanni, VP International Comms & Engagement at Philip Morris International.
The event featured a comprehensive agenda, including presentations on PMI results and recent scientific evidence that examined the role of smoke-free products in reducing smoking rates. Discussions also covered the use of technology and innovation to promote societal progress, as well as the importance of balanced regulatory and policy frameworks to further support the adoption of smoke-free products. Additionally, interactive exhibition tours featured over 30 years of innovation, along with PMI latest sustainability initiatives, virtual reality experiences, and product demonstrations, offering attendees a firsthand understanding of tobacco harm reduction advancements.
The event also addressed the challenges of misinformation and skepticism surrounding tobacco harm reduction and smoke-free alternatives, emphasizing the need for dialogue and collaboration among governments, health care professionals, NGOs, and public health advocates. Stakeholder engagement is crucial to making smoke-free products accessible, affordable, and accepted by adult consumers worldwide.
At Technovation, PMI reaffirmed its pioneering role in driving multi-category, harm reduction innovations and its dedication to transforming the tobacco industry through science and technology. The company continues to pave the way for a smoke-free future, where public health and individual choice remain at the forefront of its mission.
