Summary

The Middle East and Africa region has long been a major player in the global tobacco market. With its different cultures, traditions, and regulatory regimes, the Middle East and Africa cigarette industry presents a distinct landscape shaped by a variety of factors. In comparison to many other countries in the world, the Middle East and Africa cigarette market has historically had a comparatively high prevalence of smoking. However, this market is not uniform and differs substantially across countries and areas. Cultural standards, social status, and government regulations all contribute to this variation. Smoking has significant cultural and societal roots in many Middle Eastern and African countries. It is frequently used in social gatherings, traditional ceremonies, and rituals. For example, shisha or hookah smoking is a popular cultural activity in the Middle East, where it is commonly used for socializing and relaxation. In the Middle East and Africa region, flavored tobacco products, such as flavored shisha tobacco (also known as "maassel" or "mu'assel"), are popular. These items are available in a variety of flavors, ranging from fruity to minty, which enriches the sensory experience of smoking. Tobacco cultivation is popular in some African countries, including Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Kenya. These countries produce high-quality tobacco leaves, which are utilized in a variety of tobacco products, including cigarettes. The Middle East and Africa region has a long history of producing unique and elaborate smoking accessories. Hookahs, also known as water pipes, are intricately designed and an important element of the culture. These accessories are not only useful, but they are also artistic representations of craftsmanship. Because of its strategic location, the Middle East and Africa region has historically served as a global tobacco trading center. This has facilitated tobacco product trade with neighbouring regions, impacting local preferences and the availability of different tobacco mixes.

According to the research report, “Middle East and Africa Cigarette Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to reach market size of more than USD 23 Billion by 2028. Smoking has historically had important cultural and social significance in many countries in this region, where it is frequently entwined with traditional traditions and rituals. However, in recent years, there has been a marked shift, with increased knowledge of the health dangers connected with smoking. As a result, an increasing number of customers, particularly in metropolitan areas and among the educated, are expressing a desire to reduce or discontinue smoking. This tendency is accelerated by governments' tougher anti-smoking policies and legislation. Furthermore, the advent of alternative tobacco and nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco devices, is gaining acceptance among some consumer categories, signaling a trend away from potentially harmful smoking alternatives. Despite this, the Middle East and Africa region's different cultural norms, economic disparities, and legal framework variances continue to affect consumer patterns, making it a distinct and developing market within the global tobacco business. Waterpipe (shisha or hookah) cafes remain popular social gathering places, attracting a varied spectrum of customers. These places offer a place to unwind and socialize while smoking flavored tobacco using water pipes. Tobacco product regulation environments vary greatly across MEA nations. Some countries have severe anti-smoking laws in place, while others have more lax legislation. These differences have an impact on consumer behavior as well as market dynamics.

Based on report market is segmented into three major countries, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and South Africa. Among them Saudi Arabia is dominating the market in 2022.

The Saudi cigarette market has undergone significant changes throughout the years, affected by factors such as economic development, altering customer tastes, and government prohibitions. Cigarettes were introduced to Saudi Arabia in the mid-twentieth century and quickly gained popularity among both expatriate and native populations. Initially, the market was restricted, but as the Kingdom saw fast economic progress and modernization, cigarette consumption expanded substantially. Saudi Arabia is a conservative Islamic kingdom, and Islamic law (Sharia) is vital to the country's culture and legal structure. Islamic ideals that promote good health and well-being frequently discourage smoking. As a result, smoking carries a cultural stigma in Saudi Arabia, which has influenced public perceptions of tobacco use. Saudi Arabia has a young population, with more than half of the population under the age of 30. To deter young people from starting to smoke, the government focuses on youth smoking prevention programs. The country's strict laws on tobacco sales to minors reflect this concentration on children. Despite the fact that overall smoking rates are dropping, a subset of the population prefers premium and luxury cigarette brands. Economic prosperity and a need for status symbols have fueled this demand. As a result, high-end brands continue to exist on the market, catering to those seeking a more private smoking experience.

In terms of type market includes, light, medium and others. Among them other segment include menthol cigarettes, flavored cigarettes, rolling tobacco, electronic cigarettes are growing at rapid pace in Middle East & Africa Cigarette market.

Menthol cigarettes have seen tremendous growth in the Middle East and Africa cigarette industry for a variety of reasons. Consumer preference is an important consideration. Menthol cigarettes are more enticing to many smokers in the Middle East and Africa region because of their minty and cooling flavor. Menthol hides some of the harshness of tobacco, making smoking a smoother and more pleasurable experience, especially in hot temperatures like those found in the Middle East and Africa region. Furthermore, menthol cigarettes have frequently been sold as a "healthier" choice, though this notion is questionable, and this marketing has added to their appeal. Furthermore, menthol has cultural significance in some Middle East and Africa nations, where it is thought to have medical characteristics and is utilized in traditional medicines. All of these causes have accelerated the rise of menthol cigarette sales in the region. Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have grown rapidly in the Middle East and Africa region, with some users viewing them as a possibly less dangerous alternative to traditional smoking. E-cigarettes simulate smoking without the use of combustion, lowering exposure to hazardous tar and many of the chemicals found in regular cigarettes. The appeal of different flavors in e-liquids, as well as the ability to manage nicotine levels, appeals to both smokers trying to stop or reduce their tobacco consumption and those interested in experimenting with new flavors.

Based on distribution channel market is divided into speciality store, hypermarket/ supermarket, convenience stores, online and others. Online channel is expected to register highest growth rate in Middle East & Africa cigarette market.

The internet channel provides exceptional ease to Middle East and Africa consumers. It enables smokers to buy their favourite cigarette brands and tobacco products from the convenience of their own homes or workplaces, removing the need for traditional brick-and-mortar storefronts. Online shopping appeals to time-pressed consumers in an area where convenience is highly prized, particularly in countries with large metropolitan populations. The Middle East and African region has seen a significant increase in internet penetration and smartphone usage. As more people obtain internet connections, online shopping becomes a feasible and appealing choice. This digital change has fostered the expansion of e-commerce platforms, especially those specializing in tobacco items. Online platforms offer a wider selection of cigarette brands and tobacco-related products compared to physical stores. Smokers can explore various options, including international and premium brands, as well as different flavors and packaging sizes. This variety caters to diverse consumer preferences and encourages online purchases. The Middle East and Africa region is distinguished by a varied population with a wide range of interests and lifestyles. Online channels accommodate this diversity by offering a diverse range of cigarette brands and tobacco products. Online merchants can efficiently satisfy the needs of many consumer categories, from premium goods for affluent consumers to budget-friendly solutions for price-conscious folks.

Companies Covered in this report:
British American Tobacco plc, The Japan Tobacco Inc., Imperial Tobacco Group plc, ITC Limited, Philip Morris International Inc, PT Djarum, Eastern Company SAE, Intercontinental Tobacco Group.

Considered in this report:
• Geography: Middle East and Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:
• Middle East and Africa Cigarette market Outlook 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

Country covered in the report:
• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

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 organisations 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.

Keywords:
Middle East and Africa, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, light, medium, others, speciality store, hypermarket/supermarket, convenience stores, online, others.





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