Tobacco Asia

Tobacco Asia 57 The firm's production lines are designed for high output. While KTI declined to disclose to Tobacco Asia its exact annual volume, it divulged an installed production capacity exceeding 20 billion cigarette sticks per year, with most manufacturing lines operating around the clock. Global reach with export-driven sales KTI has evolved into a highly export-oriented manufacturer. According to Buchanan, in a typical year, more than 90% of the company's production output is destined for export markets, while less than 10% is sold domesti- cally. The company's brands are currently available in more than 70 countries across four continents. Europe remains an important region, with Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and Romania among the markets where the firm has established a strong presence. Beyond Europe, the company is actively expanding its pres- ence across Africa, the Middle East, and other emerging markets as well, while seeking new opportunities in Asia and the Americas. The company's logistics infrastructure plays a crucial role in maintaining this global reach. "A robust logistics infrastructure, supported by advanced distribution operations and an in-house warehouse, enables efficient global servicing and supports long-term partnerships across international markets," said Stuart Buchanan. A diverse portfolio of global brands KT International has built its market presence on a growing portfolio of cig- arette brands that combine distinctive design with specialized formats and flavor innovations. Among its most successful brands is The King Original, currently the company's best-selling line. "The King Original is built on the principle that true flavor begins with the leaf," Buchanan explained. "Care- fully selected tobaccos and the expertise of our master blender create a full- bodied, authentic and consistent experience." KTI has also expanded into innovative flavor segments. The King Fusion range, for example, combines chocolate-flavored tobacco blends with fruit- flavored capsules in the filter, allowing smokers to release additional flavors on demand. This innovation has helped drive rapid growth, with the brand recording a 46% increase in volumes in 2025. Another flagship brand is Cor- set, a super-slim cigarette line recognized for its distinctive packaging and premium design. The brand is now distributed in more than 60 countries and has received international recognition for packaging and product innovation. Strategic partnerships and OEM capabilities While KTI primarily focuses on developing and promoting its own brands, the company also provides manufacturing services to selected partners. One notable example is its partnership with South Korea's KT&G, under which KTI was granted exclusive rights in 2023 to manu- facture and distribute KT&G products within the European Union. According to Buchanan, such collaborations demonstrate KTI's technical ca- pabilities. "By combining technical expertise, in- novative product development, and reliable global distribution, KT International provides OEM cus- tomers with a trusted manufacturing partner ca- pable of turning brand concepts into high-quality, market-ready products," he said. Innovation and sustainability In recent years, KTI has also made significant investments in sustainability and operational ef- ficiency. A notable project is the construction of a solar park at the company's Plovdiv headquar- ters. Covering 18 acres and equipped with more than 9,000 solar panels, the installation generates renewable energy for the factory and reduces car- bon emissions by more than 3,300 tons annually. Initiatives such as this form part of a broader com- mitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles as the company works to reduce its environmental footprint while maintaining ef- ficient production operations. A future resting on independence More than a century after Plovdiv emerged as a tobacco center and nearly two decades after the company's founding, KTI continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining its status as an independent manufacturer. "In a rapidly evolving sector, our ability to balance tradition, innovation, and operational flexibility allows KT International to remain a dynamic and competitive independent manufacturer," Buchanan concluded. KTI's con- tinued growth illustrates how independence, tech- nological investment, and global ambition can still carve out a successful place in the modern tobacco industry; and against all odds. Sleek and visually attractive, the Corset range is among KTI's top sellers. Credit: KTI KTI utilizes some of southeastern Europe's most modern cigarette manufactur- ing equipment. Credit: KTI

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