Altria Group, the owner of Phillip Morris and Marlboro, plans to enter the world of cannabis

After a wave of rumors in recent years, it's now official. Altria Group, the owner of Phillip Morris and the Marlboro brand, is investigating entry opportunities into the cannabis industry.

Altria Group evaluates its entry into the cannabis industry

In 2012, with the announcement of legalization in Washington and Colorado, rumors have circulated about the big tobacco companies. And, especially on the manufacturer Marlboro, Philip Morris, via the owner company Altria which provides for entry into the legal cannabis market. A spokesman for Philip Morris, then denied the rumors:

Our policy states that we do not respond to speculation about future business plans. Tobacco companies will continue to manufacture and market tobacco products.

In 2016, a spokesman for the company has once again denied the rumors ... And, said that Philip Morris and the parent company Altria "Do not intend to sell cannabis-based products." Now, for the first time comes an official statement from the parent company (Altria), announcing that it is considering all opportunities to enter the market. cannabis.

Vice President Murray Garnick and CFO William Gifford explain at a conference last week.

Society is aware of the possibility of imminent changes in the legality of cannabis in the United States. We are currently studying and evaluating business opportunities for this product. However, cannabis is still illegal under US federal law. And, we intend to continue to comply with federal law.

Tobacco companies, pending full legalization

According to Robert Fagan, an analyst working for an investment firm in Montreal, tobacco companies take their time investing in industrial cannabis. Because they expect legislation on the subject that will be unequivocal before jumping on foot ... Just like the tobacconists, dependent on tobacco manufacturers ... Despite the legal uncertainty, other cigarette manufacturers have already tried their luck. A few weeks ago, the British giant tobacco Imperial Brands has invested more than Oxford Cannabinoids Technologies, in the study of cannabis ...

In addition, it should be noted that the tobacco industry's interest in cannabis has existed at least since the 70 years. In an internal note de Phillip Morris de 1970, reveals that cannabis is "another and perhaps the best way to meet the needs of cigarette consumption". Remember, however, that the tobacco industry is losing enough money for the vape market; and that she has every interest in rehabilitating herself ^^