Research foundation “The Foundation for a Smoke-Free World” that was originally set up by Philip Morris International (PMI) will no longer accept any funding from the nicotine industry, reports Reuters.

The “Foundation for a Smoke-Free World” was founded in 2017 with the support of PMI who said it would provide tens of millions of dollars each year for 12 years to keep the foundation running. Now, the foundation plans to rebrand and no longer accept funding from parties associated with the nicotine industry. The foundation’s CEO, Cliff Douglas, is a long-time tobacco control advocate who joined the foundation in October, and said he wants to see it re-established as a credible actor in ending smoking, reports Reuters.
“Any scepticism around our independence can be laid to rest,” he said.
While many tobacco control advocates have responded positively to the move, others are not convinced.
“Whether it’s true or not, [Douglas] will be seen as pursuing PMI’s agenda, not that of public health,” said Deborah Arnott, chief executive of UK health charity ASH.
Yolonda Richardson, president and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, said it was “ludicrous” for the foundation to claim independence after accepting a hefty payment from PMI.
According to Reuters, the foundation says its mission is to end smoking including via research aimed at helping smokers quit or move to alternative products.
PMI said the split was mutual and wished the foundation success.