The tobacco epidemic and the commercial sector: tobacco industry strategies to increase profits and prevent regulation

Weishaar, H. (2015) The tobacco epidemic and the commercial sector: tobacco industry strategies to increase profits and prevent regulation. In: Loddenkemper, R. and Kreuter, M. (eds.) The Tobacco Epidemic [2nd, revised and extended edition]. Series: Progress in Respiratory Research (42). Karger: Basel, pp. 27-36. ISBN 9783318026566 (doi: 10.1159/000369322)

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Abstract

Being produced and promoted by large transnational corporations, tobacco provides a fascinating opportunity for investigating the detrimental impacts of commercial interests on health. This chapter critically reflects on the role of tobacco companies in the production, distribution and marketing of tobacco, their vested interests in tobacco control, and tobacco industry strategies to maintain a regulatory environment which allows them to continue running an exceptionally profitable business. First, a summary of the six major transnational tobacco companies and their efforts to exert political influence is presented. The chapter then outlines controversies about tobacco industry engagement in tobacco control before presenting three case studies of tobacco industry strategies to enhance profits and prevent regulation. The first case study describes tobacco companies' business and lobbying strategies in developing countries; the second focuses on British American Tobacco's success in building alliances to ensure political engagement at European Union level, and the final case discusses recent tobacco companies' efforts to establish themselves as legitimate stakeholders in harm reduction debates. By presenting evidence of tobacco industry success in increasing profits, building coalitions and preventing effective tobacco control policy, the chapter draws attention to the underlying political and economic factors which are crucial in understanding the tobacco epidemic.

Item Type:Book Sections
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Weishaar, Dr Heide
Authors: Weishaar, H.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
Publisher:Karger
ISSN:1422-2140
ISBN:9783318026566

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