[Intl-tobacco] Cooperation Between BAT and China's State-Owned Enterprises (fwd)

[Robert Weissman]

A Milestone Achievement in Huang Gou Shu and BAT Cooperation
TobaccoChina Online-05/30/2000

British American Tobacco and Guizhou Huang Guo Shu Tobacco Group
celebrated their launch of a jointly developed new product-Huang Guo Shu
Lights at a major national tobacco trade fair on May 19,2000. The launch
marked an important milestone in British American Tobacco co-operation
with STMA. Commenting at the launch ceremony attended by STMA Deputy
Director General Jiang Chenkang and industry representatives from across
the country. Russell Cameron, Area Director for BAT Asia Pacific North,
said, "The official launch of Huang Guo Shu Group. Working together with
dedicated management and staff of the Huang Guo Shu Group, we have been
able to greatly enhance Huang Guo Shu brand's sales volume, improve
machine efficiency and reduce material waste. And above all, beyond these
tangible results, we have fostered true partnership and that is we value
most highly."

 This brand new low tar product of superb quality is part of the ongoing
program between China's Huang Guo Shu Group and British American Tobacco
China. With the support and encouragement from STMA, the agreement for the
Huang Guo Shu joint brand development project was signed at the end of
1996. BAT China team believed that HGS partners demonstrated high
professional standards and true dedication the co-operation project, which
was essential in making the project a success.

 Initial response to the new lights variant of Huang Guo Shu brand family
has been very positive. The launch of the new lights product represents
the emerging trend in Chinese tobacco industry and among consumers for
lights cigarettes. Both co-operation partners are determined to make this
new product a great success in its targeted markets.

 Looking toward future of enhanced partnership with Chinese tobacco
industry, Mr. Cameron further commented, "the success of our co-operation
shows the remarkable benefits of working together in partnership, of
combining the international expertise, management and technology of
British American Tobacco with the strength and local experience of the
Chinese tobacco industry. I am very glad that the project so far has
achieved such excellent results."

 Mr. Cameron further emphasized "as a responsible international company in
China, we see supporting the progress of state owned tobacco enterprises
as one of our important responsibilities. We at British American Tobacco
will continue to give full devotion to our co-operation with Guizhou STMA
and Huang Guo Shu Group and will work with our partners with unwavering
commitment to ensure the continuing success of Huang Guo Shu brand."