News&ViewsPodcast | Tobacco Asia - InterTabac

In this episode, Hugo Azinheira of Filtrona discusses with host Thomas Schmid the company’s pioneering work in sustainable, plastic-free filters for the tobacco industry. Driven by the EU’s Single Use Plastics Directive (EUSUPD), Filtrona invested in R&D to launch the ECO range of biodegradable filters, using both new and historical materials. The conversation highlights how regulatory changes have spurred industry demand for sustainable solutions and how Filtrona’s innovation center in Indonesia accelerates product development and customer collaboration. Hugo also outlines Filtrona’s ambitious ESG goals, including carbon neutrality by 2040 and net zero emissions by 2050, and notes the company’s remarkable...

Altria has launched the "Connect and Transform" initiative to accelerate its shift away from traditional tobacco products and drive innovation by connecting with external partners. Wael Safi, Altria’s Managing Director of Open Innovation and Venture Growth, explains that the program is designed to identify company needs, connect with outside experts, startups, and inventors, and bring in new capabilities to transform the business.

The initiative stands out for its intentional approach: Altria clearly defines its needs through "needs briefs," actively seeks out relevant partners, and maintains ongoing relationships even if there isn’t an immediate fit. Success stories include leveraging AI to...

Thomas Schmid interviews Jordan Herring, CEO of Hidden Valley Genetics, discussing the rapid changes in Thailand’s cannabis laws. In 2022, Thailand became the first Asian country to legalize cannabis, creating a booming industry but with little regulatory framework. In June 2025, the government reversed course, making recreational use illegal again and restricting cannabis to medical use only, which now requires medical prescriptions and on-site doctors at dispensaries. The interview highlights the economic, legal, and social consequences of these policy shifts, the struggles of small business owners, and the ongoing adaptation of the industry to new regulations.

Delving deep, Jordan explains...

Thomas Schmid hosts a discussion about advancements in anti-counterfeiting technology, particularly focusing on the hidden image technology used in packaging. He introduces Julian Homer, the commercial manager at Arden Dies Limited, to elaborate on this innovative technology.

Julian explains how hidden image embossing (or debossing) works, detailing that this method invisibly embeds a secondary image within a primary embossed or debossed design, which can be revealed using a special plastic lens. This technique offers increased security against counterfeit products, particularly in the tobacco industry.

Julian clarifies how the hidden images work, how they can be verified, and who can access...