South America Cigarette Market Outlook, 2028

South America has experienced significant population growth over the years. A growing population can lead to an increase in the number of potential consumers for cigarettes. In some South American countries, there has been economic growth and an expanding middle class. As disposable income increases, more individuals may be able to afford tobacco products, leading to higher cigarette sales. Regulatory measures, such as taxes, advertising restrictions, and graphic warning labels on cigarette packaging, can influence smoking rates. In some South American countries, these regulations may be less stringent than in other regions, making it easier for tobacco companies to market and sell their products. Smoking is still culturally ingrained in some South American societies. Social norms and traditions related to smoking can contribute to its continued popularity. The widespread availability and accessibility of cigarettes through various distribution channels, such as convenience stores, street vendors, and kiosks, can contribute to the growth of the market. In some South American countries, cigarettes may be relatively inexpensive compared to other regions due to lower taxes and production costs. This affordability can drive higher consumption rates. Smoking is often seen as a social activity in some South American cultures, and it is sometimes associated with hospitality and community gatherings. This cultural acceptance can encourage smoking and contribute to market growth. Trade agreements and international partnerships can affect the tobacco industry's ability to operate and expand in South America. Some trade agreements may facilitate the import and distribution of tobacco products, further contributing to market growth. The availability of effective smoking cessation programs and resources may be limited in some South American countries. This can make it more challenging for smokers to quit and reduce overall consumption rates. Tobacco companies have historically sponsored events and promoted their products through advertising and sponsorship of sports, music, and cultural events. These marketing strategies can create brand loyalty and contribute to the growth of the cigarette market.

According to the research report, “South America cigarette Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the South America Cigarette market is anticipated to add more than USD 1.60 Billion market size from 2023 to 2028. Illicit trade in cigarettes is a significant challenge in South America. Smuggled and counterfeit cigarettes often evade taxes and regulations, making them more affordable and accessible. This not only undermines government revenue but also poses health risks due to the lack of quality control. Cross-border trade in cigarettes is common in South America, with some countries having lower tobacco prices and taxes than others. This trade dynamic can lead to price differentials that influence consumer choices. Public health organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are increasingly active in South America, running anti-smoking campaigns and advocating for stronger tobacco control measures. These campaigns aim to raise awareness about the health risks of smoking and promote smoking cessation. In some South American countries, tobacco companies have targeted women with specific cigarette brands and marketing strategies. This has led to an increase in female smokers. Tobacco cultivation continues to be a source of income for many farmers in South America. This creates economic incentives to maintain or expand tobacco production, despite the health and environmental concerns associated with tobacco farming. Smoking prevalence can vary significantly between rural and urban areas in South America. While urban areas may have stricter anti-smoking regulations and higher public awareness, smoking rates can be higher in rural regions where tobacco cultivation is more prevalent. Several South American countries have considered or implemented plain packaging regulations for tobacco products. This involves standardized packaging with minimal branding and graphic health warnings. Such measures aim to reduce the appeal of cigarette packaging. South American countries often collaborate with international health organizations like the WHO and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to strengthen tobacco control efforts and align with global best practices.

Brazil is the largest country in South America by population, with over 212 million people. This gives Brazil a large pool of potential cigarette consumers. Cigarettes are relatively affordable in Brazil, compared to other countries in the region. This makes them more accessible to a wider range of people. Smoking is more socially acceptable in Brazil than in some other South American countries. This is due in part to the country's long history of tobacco production and consumption. The Brazilian government has taken a number of steps to promote the cigarette industry, such as providing subsidies to tobacco farmers and reducing taxes on cigarettes. The market is dominated by a small number of large multinational companies, such as British American Tobacco and Philip Morris International. The most popular cigarette brands in Brazil include Marlboro, Kent, and Dunhill. In 2022, Brazil became the first country in Latin America to introduce plain packaging for cigarettes. Plain packaging requires cigarettes to be sold in plain, brown packs with no branding or logos. Plain packaging is designed to make cigarettes less appealing and to reduce the attractiveness of smoking to young people.

Light cigarettes, also known as low-tar or low-nicotine cigarettes, are characterized by their reduced levels of tar, nicotine, and other harmful compounds compared to regular or full-flavor products. In addition, the perception among smokers is that they are less harmful and pose a lower health risk than regular product is influencing the market growth. Many smokers believe that by choosing light-type products, they can potentially mitigate the adverse health effects associated with smoking. Moreover, light cigarettes are often marketed as a milder and smoother smoking experience, appealing to individuals who may find the taste and harshness of regular products less desirable which represents another major growth-inducing factor. Besides this, regulatory initiatives in some countries require cigarette manufacturers to label tar and nicotine content on product packs which led some consumers to opt for light products, believing that they are making a safer choice thus accelerating the market growth.

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel has also been provided in the report. This includes Speciality Store, supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online stores, and others. According to the report, In South America speciality store accounted for the largest market share. Specialty tobacco retailers or tobacconists, are specialized shops focused on selling tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, and smoking accessories. Additionally, tobacco shops are establishing a strong presence in the market due to their expertise in tobacco products and the personalized service they offer to customers is influencing the market growth. Also, smokers often prefer purchasing products from these dedicated outlets as they can access numerous kinds of brands and tobacco blends, allowing them to find products that match their preferences. Moreover, tobacco shops provide a unique shopping experience, offering knowledgeable staff that can assist customers in selecting suitable products and provide insights into different tobacco blends and smoking techniques. This personalized approach fosters customer loyalty and enhances the shopping experience for smokers. Additionally, tobacco shops may have exclusive deals with certain tobacco manufacturers, allowing them to offer limited edition or specialty products that may not be readily available in other retail channels.



Key Players Insights:
British American Tobacco plc , The Japan Tobacco Inc., Imperial Tobacco Group plc, ITC Limited, Habanos S.A, ITC Limited

Considered in this report
• Geography: South America
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• South America Cigarette with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Cigarette market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report:
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia

By Type
• Light
• Medium
• Others

By Distribution Channel
• Speciality Store
• Hypermarket/supermarket
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organizations related to the Cigarette industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.