Cambodia Investment Review
The Association of Tobacco Industry of Cambodia (ATIC) has announced that Mr. Benjamin Cerletti, General Manager of JT International Co., Ltd. (JTI Cambodia), has assumed the role of President following the completion of the two-year term served by his predecessor, Mr. Miguel Barros Figueira, General Manager of Imperial Brands Plc.
The leadership transition comes as Cambodia’s tobacco industry continues to engage with policymakers and regulators on issues including taxation, illicit trade, and the consistent enforcement of industry regulations. ATIC has positioned itself as a platform for dialogue among tobacco companies, government agencies, and other stakeholders, with the aim of supporting a more transparent and predictable business environment.
Mr. Cerletti brings nearly two decades of experience with Japan Tobacco International, having held senior leadership roles at the company’s global headquarters in Geneva as well as across Asia and the Pacific region. His international experience spans regulatory engagement, market development, and operational leadership across multiple jurisdictions.
Collaboration Between Industry Participants & Government Institutions
Under his presidency, ATIC is expected to continue focusing on collaboration between industry participants and government institutions, particularly in areas related to regulatory compliance and responsible business practices. The association was established to promote cooperation among tobacco operators in Cambodia and to facilitate engagement with policymakers on issues affecting the sector.
Read More: JTI Cambodia Advocates For Fair Tobacco Regulations
ATIC also emphasizes the importance of operating within Cambodia’s legal and regulatory framework, while contributing to a fair and transparent market environment. The association’s work often involves engagement with regulators and ministries responsible for taxation, customs enforcement, and public health policy.
The leadership transition follows the completion of the two-year presidency served by Mr. Miguel Barros Figueira. In previous discussions with Cambodia Investment Review, Figueira highlighted the importance of ensuring a balanced and predictable regulatory environment for companies operating in the tobacco sector.
Advocating For Consistent Enforcement
At the time, he noted that the industry had been advocating for consistent enforcement of existing regulations to ensure that all companies operating in the market adhere to the same standards. He also raised concerns about the impact of illicit tobacco products entering the market, which can undermine both regulatory enforcement and government tax revenues.
Figueira previously pointed to the need for clear and predictable policy frameworks, particularly in relation to tobacco taxation and compliance requirements. Cambodia has been reviewing its long-term tobacco tax roadmap in recent years, with discussions taking place between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and public health organizations.
The tobacco industry in Cambodia operates under a regulatory environment that includes health warning requirements on packaging, taxation policies, and rules governing product distribution and imports. Industry representatives have emphasized the importance of maintaining regulatory clarity and consistent enforcement across the market.
Work Closely With Policymakers, Regulators, & Industry Partners
Speaking on his appointment as President of ATIC, Mr. Cerletti acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor and the work undertaken by the association’s Board of Directors.
“As President of ATIC, I look forward to continuing to work closely with policymakers, regulators, and industry partners,” he said. “Our focus will remain on encouraging dialogue, supporting compliance with national regulations, and promoting transparency in the way we operate.”
He added that strengthening cooperation between industry stakeholders and authorities would remain an important part of ATIC’s work moving forward.
With Mr. Cerletti now serving as President, the association aims to deepen its engagement with government institutions and reinforce its commitment to accountability, collaboration, and compliance within Cambodia’s tobacco sector.
