Philip Morris USA said it will raise list prices on all but its four largest cigarette brands by US$ 1.99 per carton.

The price increase does not include the company's four top selling brands Marlboro, Virginia Slims, Parliament and Basic. Those brands make up the vast majority of Philip Morris USA's sales.
The increase, on brands such as Merit and Benson & Hedges, is effective 12 February, said Michael Neese, a spokesman for Philip Morris USA. Philip Morris USA, which sells about half of the nation's cigarettes, has seen price increases lift profits in recent quarters, even as the U.S. cigarette market continues to shrink. (pi)