The latest federal data shows the nation's top tobacco companies have reduced spending on advertising and promotion of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products in recent years. Figures from the Federal Trade Commission show cigarette marketing declined more than five percent to $8.05 billion from 2009 to 2010, the latest year for which figures are available.
For burley tobacco farmers in Kentucky and Tennessee, an average crop being forecast is a big relief. A few weeks ago, the crop was on the brink of ruin from extreme heat and drought.
Although many communities in the U.S. have taken steps to curb smoking, Kentucky tobacco growers continue to benefit from export sales. However, the government in New Zealand today is taking some very strong steps to discourage tobacco use.
