JTI and PMI are accused by Ukraine of supporting Russia’s economy. Photo credit Stas Svechnikov, Creative Commons
The National Agency on Corruption Prevention in Ukraine included Japan Tobacco International (JTI) and Philip Morris International (PMI) to its list of companies sponsoring the war in Ukraine.
The companies are accused of continuing to do business in Russia and supporting its economy, according to the agency’s website.
JTI, which holds a market share of approximately 35% and is represented on the Russian market in particular by the Winston, LD, Mevius, Camel, and Sobranie brands, halted fresh investments and marketing endeavors in the nation due to Western sanctions imposed on Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine.
PMI’s market share in Russia amounted to 30.1% in 2019, so that makes the company one of the largest taxpayers to the Russian budget.
The Ukrainian governmental agency criticized the companies for persisting with their business operations in Russia and for paying a substantial amount of taxes in that country, thereby bolstering its economy.
A representative from Japan Tobacco stated recently that the company has heard of the Ukrainian agency's ruling. However, they mentioned that Japan Tobacco is also engaged in commercial activities in Ukraine.
The representative further clarified, “We are providing aid and support to (Ukrainian) people in need and continuing to make contributions to the Ukrainian economy.”