The Tobacco Institute of Southern Africa (TISA) was formed in 1991 to represent the non-commercial, common interests of both the manufacturers of tobacco products and tobacco growers.

Tobacco RSA (previously the Tobacco Exchange and the Tobacco Board) evolved in 1996, representing the primary industry in South Africa, i.e. growers, leaf dealers and processors.

In recent times, changes in local and global markets highlighted the need for a more consolidated focus within the South African tobacco industry. The members of TISA and Tobacco RSA, as well as new players in the local market, recognised the need for the South African tobacco industry to be more united and this resulted in a process to integrate Tobacco RSA's operations into TISA.

This process, including the amendment of TISA's Statutes to incorporate Tobacco RSA's members as well as applying for deregistration of Tobacco RSA, was finalised during 2006.

The immediate effect of this process resulted in a stronger, more focused industry body, representing the common interests of the entire South African tobacco industry, both locally and globally.

Further reading : 2006 Annual Report.pdf : Issue 5, September 2006.pdf (Newsletter)

Current Members of TISA are:

• Afgri Tobacco
• British American Tobacco South Africa (BATSA)
• The Cigar Company South Africa
• Dimon SA (Alliance One International)
• JT International South Africa (JTISA)
• The Phillip Morris South Africa Group of Companies:
  • Phillip Morris South Africa (PMSA)
  • Leonard Dingler
  • Best Blend
  • Brasant
• Tobacco Traders
• Universal Leaf South Africa (ULSA)

The Objects of TISA

• Protect the interests and convey the views of the Tobacco Industry in South Africa to all stakeholders and relevant parties.
• Not have any commercial role in affairs concerning the growing, purchasing, manufacturing, pricing or marketing of tobacco or tobacco products.
• Assist in protecting all of the rights, including constitutional and common law rights, of the Tobacco Industry in South Africa.

The main Functions of TISA

• Monitor and act on all legislative developments affecting the Tobacco Industry;
• Monitor legislative developments on the international front affecting the Tobacco Industry in South Africa, e.g. the FCTC;
• Develop and implement a sustainable BEE business plan to provide opportunities for black tobacco growers;
• Provide development opportunities to agricultural students;
• Work with government agencies to combat growth in the illicit trade of tobacco products;
• Assist in ensuring a stable and sustainable future for tobacco growing in South Africa;
• Provide funding for and manage research and development in the primary industry;
• Communicate with stakeholders within and outside of the Tobacco Industry, locally and internationally;
• Liaise with the media;
• Develop and implement a Youth Smoking Prevention (YSP) Programme;

Apply for TISA Membership here

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