KT&G Enters Kazakhstan's Heated Tobacco Market with Direct Operations
KT&G Enters Kazakhstan's Heated Tobacco Market with Direct Operations
PR Newswire
SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 9, 2026
- Introduces FLEX device and four FAIIM tobacco sticks, strengthening the competitiveness of its global NGP business
SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- KT&G (CEO Bang Kyung-man) launched its heated tobacco device FLEX and four FAIIM tobacco sticks in Kazakhstan in October.
FLEX and FAIIM are locally branded versions of lil AIBLE and AIIM, which are currently sold in South Korea, tailored to the Kazakhstani market. The products will initially be available only in Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, with KT&G planning to gradually expand its local distribution network.
KT&G also plans to broaden engagement with local consumers through the operation of a FLEX flagship store at Forum Mall, a major shopping center in Almaty. The flagship store will provide a range of services, including brand information and customer consultation, with the aim of improving consumer understanding of the products and expanding the overall brand experience.
The launch is part of KT&G's broader global market expansion strategy following the establishment of an independent commercialization platform for certain products within its overseas NGP(Next Generation Products) business this year. KT&G has continued to strengthen its business foundation through its local subsidiary in Kazakhstan and has enhanced its competitiveness by expanding its distribution network and establishing local production capabilities, while increasing market share and improving profitability. With the launch of the new products, the company plans to expand its presence beyond combustible cigarettes into the NGP segment.
The launch of FLEX and FAIIM in Kazakhstan marks a new starting point for the expansion of our global NGP business, according to a KT&G official. KT&G will continue to enter untapped markets and strengthen the growth momentum of its global NGP business by leveraging differentiated product competitiveness and business strategies optimized for local market conditions.
SOURCE KT&G
The articles, information, and content displayed on this webpage may include materials prepared and provided by third parties. Such third-party content is offered for informational purposes only and is not endorsed, reviewed, or verified by Morningstar.
Morningstar makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or reliability of any third-party content displayed on this site. The views and opinions expressed in third-party content are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Morningstar, its affiliates, or employees.
Morningstar is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or delays in this content, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Users are advised to exercise their own judgment and seek independent financial advice before making any decisions based on such content. The third-party providers of this content are not affiliated with Morningstar, and their inclusion on this site does not imply any form of partnership, agency, or endorsement.
Popular
4 Growth Stocks to Buy While They’re Still Undervalued
3 of the Best Core Stocks to Own
3 Great New ETFs From 2026
The 10 Best Companies to Invest in Now
United States