KT&G expands global duty-free presence with ESSE, RAISON and BOHEM

KT&G, under the leadership of CEO Bang Kyung-man, showcased its significant presence in the global duty-free tobacco market at TFWA World 2026, the world’s largest duty-free industry exhibition held in Cannes, France. This annual event, organized by the Tax Free World Association (TFWA), brought together major companies and stakeholders from the duty-free market.

Over five consecutive years, KT&G has participated in the exhibition to enhance its global footprint. The 2026 edition allowed the company to present its flagship domestic and international brands: ESSE, RAISON, and BOHEM. ESSE, in particular, was highlighted for its impressive global sales, crossing the KRW 1 trillion mark in the previous year.

To emphasize its global expansion, KT&G employed digital screens at its booth to display its overseas business performance. The company entered the duty-free market in 1995 when it introduced the 88 Lights cigarette into China’s duty-free sector. Currently, KT&G operates in approximately 110 airports and 179 duty-free stores worldwide.

Post-TFWA World 2026, the company aims to expand its operations in Europe and Latin America, aiming to forge stronger partnerships, expand distribution, and boost brand competitiveness internationally. A KT&G official stated, "TFWA World, the world's largest duty-free exhibition, provided an opportunity to explore new business opportunities with overseas partners and raise awareness of K-tobacco brands.

We will continue to actively expand our global network and strengthen our brand competitiveness in overseas markets." In addition to Cannes, KT&G is broadening its global presence by engaging in duty-free and industry exhibitions in Singapore and Germany this year. The company also recently introduced five ESSE products at Istanbul Airport’s duty-free store in Turkey, serving around 84 million passengers annually.