IQOS controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
Back to profile4 entries
2020
Regulatory and marketing criticism in Australia
A report on PMI’s Australian strategy described lobbying to legalize heated tobacco while identifying bars, clubs, and pubs as possible sales venues. The issue formed part of wider criticism of the company’s approach to tobacco regulation and youth access.
2020
Promotional practices in France
Reporting alleged that PMI promoted IQOS at private events in France, with sales representatives sometimes offering alcoholic beverages to prospective customers. The reports contributed to debate over whether such activity circumvented restrictions on tobacco promotion.
2019
Alleged youth-oriented influencer marketing
Reports alleged that PMI used social-media influencers to promote IQOS in ways that could reach younger audiences. PMI responded that it would discontinue use of influencers in the activity described.
2017
Questions concerning IQOS clinical-trial evidence
Reuters reported allegations from former employees and reviewed documents that raised questions about irregularities in PMI clinical trials submitted in connection with IQOS regulatory approval. The reporting also examined PMI’s lobbying against or around provisions of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.