The Virginia Tobacco Co., Ltd. (VCTL), manufacturer of some of Myanmar’s most popular cigarette brands, is ending its operations after facing widespread boycotts over its links to the country’s military.
The company, known for its Red Ruby and Premium Gold cigarette brands, is a joint venture between military-owned conglomerate the Myanmar Economic Holdings Limited (MEHL) and Singapore-based Rothmans Myanmar Holdings Singapore.
The move follows a decision made by the company’s directors at a February 29 board meeting to proceed with the dissolution under relevant legal provisions.
Established in 1993, the company has been a significant player in the domestic tobacco market, holding a market share that previously made it one of the leading brands in Myanmar.
Following the military coup in 2021, VTCL faced increasing scrutiny and backlash from the public, as well as pressure from activists and monitor groups such as Justice for Myanmar. . .
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