We all know that Tobacco kills. Yet American companies paddling cancer sticks are growing profitably Year over year.
How?
But selling to more developing market….knowing fully well that their product causes unparalleled suffering, death and diseases.
Between 1960 and 2000, global cigarette consumption increased by 4% a year, reflecting the industry’s expansion into emerging markets.
More than three-quarters of the world’s smokers now live in the developing world.
How do these companies grow?
They are using their legal muscle and marketing tactics to lure young smokers in countries that are weaker in legislation.
Of late, much attention has focused on international trade and investment treaties which tobacco companies have used to limit regulation. At least four African countries – Namibia, Gabon, Togo and Uganda – have received warnings from the tobacco industry that their laws violate international treaties.
Can you believe that? A death peddler is warning countries that their laws to curb tobacco addiction and save young lives will pull them into expensive court battle in International Trade Organization.
And yet, we Americans are happy in turning a blind eye to such companies (in the name of capitalism).