Japan Tobacco International Assets Seized in Russia
Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs delivered a formal protest note to the Russian ambassador in Tokyo after Moscow seized the local assets of Japan Tobacco International (JTI), as the Japanese news agency Kyodo News reported. Vladimir Putin signed an order this week transferring the company’s Russian corporate division into the temporary management of Promishļennije aktivi.
The takeover targets tobacco production facilities located in Rostov-on-Don, Yelets, and St. Petersburg. Following the decree, Foreign Ministry official Kimitake Nakamura and Satsuki Katajama urged Moscow to reverse the decision. Tokyo intends to coordinate its next steps directly with corporate leadership.
Tokyo Demands Reversal Over Tobacco Plants
“Japan has repeatedly called on Russia to respect the legitimate interests of Japanese citizens and enterprises,” Katajama stated, adding that Tokyo will closely monitor developments alongside JTI. The Japanese company has operated within the Russian market since 1999. By acquiring Donskoj Tabak in 2018, JTI established itself as the largest cigarette manufacturer in the country.
The Russian subsidiary currently employs approximately 4,000 workers. Unlike many international firms that abandoned the market following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, JTI maintained its business operations in Russia. Kyodo News notes that the Russian branch accounts for roughly 10% of the company’s total global turnover.
Frequently Asked Questions About the JTI Asset Seizure
Which Russian cities house the affected JTI factories?
The temporary management order signed by Vladimir Putin impacts tobacco production plants in Rostov-on-Don, Yelets, and St. Petersburg.
How long has Japan Tobacco International operated in Russia?
JTI entered the Russian market in 1999 and expanded significantly in 2018 by purchasing the domestic manufacturer Donskoj Tabak.
How many people does the Japanese company employ in Russia?
The Russian corporate division of JTI currently provides jobs for approximately 4,000 workers across its facilities.