Philip Morris International has launched an office in Uzbekistan.

Enrique Jimenez and Sinan Tav answered several questions regarding the purpose of opening an office in Tashkent, development plans, and more.

Enrique Jimenez

What motivated PMI to open an office specifically in Uzbekistan?

Enrique Jimenez: Uzbekistan is experiencing an impressive economic upturn. When you arrive here, you can feel the energy of growth: infrastructure is advancing, foreign investments are increasing (by 60% in 2024), and the population is young and ambitious—almost 40 million people, half of whom are professionals of working age.

This is the ideal combination for business. Furthermore, the country is actively working on regulatory reforms and integration into international organizations, such as the WTO. For PMI, this signals that Uzbekistan is not just a market but a long-term partner.

Uzbekistan is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. “You can’t even imagine how attractive Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent are to the Spanish!

Sinan Tav

Sinan Tav: In the future, Uzbekistan will become a vital source of talent not just for the domestic market but for the entire region. However, PMI's strength lies in its presence in 180 countries.

This will open up vast opportunities for Uzbek specialists—they will be able to enter the international market, showcasing Uzbekistan as a talent hub. Moreover, the country could serve as a model for other nations in this regard.

From this perspective, Uzbekistan should be viewed not only as a source of workforce for the domestic market but also as a key supplier of talent on an international level, transforming it into a net exporter of skilled professionals.

What are PMI’s plans in Uzbekistan in the near future?

Enrique Jimenez: Our plans can be divided into three key areas.

First, we want to strengthen the presence of our brands across all regions of the country and prevent the growth of illegal tobacco products.

Second, we will continue to develop local production. Currently, a significant portion of our products is created in partnership with the Uzbek manufacturer Tashkent Tabacco, and we intend to expand this collaboration.

And third, we will invest in talent. Uzbekistan is not only a local market but also a source of workforce for our regional and global operations. We want Uzbek employees to build careers worldwide within PMI.

How can PMI, as an employer, impact the labor market in Uzbekistan?

Enrique Jimenez: I believe we can contribute in various ways. First and foremost, we offer jobs at a company that is a global leader in its industry.

Secondly, we are undergoing an unprecedented transformation, radically changing not only our own approach to work but the entire industry as a whole. Thirdly, we are a good employer.

For the past nine years, we have been recognized as the best global employer, which confirms our high standards of working conditions. We have also become one of the first companies to receive the EQUAL SALARY certification, ensuring equal opportunities and fair pay regardless of gender.

Additionally, as Sinan noted, one can build an international career with us. We are a testament to this and are ready to offer a platform for working in different countries.

I would like to emphasize that we value diversity. We do not strive to be the same—instead, it is our differences that strengthen the company.

Thus, we create an environment where talented individuals can unleash their potential, develop professionally, work in an international company, and still be themselves.

Overall, we aim to ensure our facilities are ready for individuals with disabilities. This is our top priority. In countries where specific regulatory requirements exist, we adhere to them strictly.

We have examples of employees who work alongside PMI, and we pay special attention to addressing their needs. They can advance their careers on equal terms with others.

Two aspects are important to us: diversity and inclusivity.

It’s possible to simply be diverse, but that’s not all that matters. The key is to feel that you can be yourself within the company. We make significant efforts to create an inclusive environment.

We have various channels where employees can express any needs, and we regularly monitor these requests. Naturally, individuals with disabilities are not exceptions. If any of our employees have special needs, we provide all necessary support.

I believe that if you are a professional, it doesn’t matter if you are a man or a woman, whether you have a disability or not—come work with us. We will take care of you.

Tell us more about the new office. How does it reflect PMI's values?

Sinan Tav: Let me briefly explain our DNA—PMI's DNA. It encompasses three main dimensions: we care, we are stronger together, and we are changing the game.

All our actions are based on these principles.

As part of our care for employees, their well-being is a priority for us. At all levels—local, regional, global—management pays special attention to employee comfort, as we spend a significant amount of time at work, sometimes even more than with family. That’s why we strive to create the most comfortable and pleasant environment in the office.

In terms of sustainability, we follow PMI's global goals. For example, all materials used in the office have eco-certifications. We sort waste to increase recycling rates, and the office's energy supply system is built on principles of energy efficiency.

Thus, our office combines care for employees and a sustainable approach to development, creating a favorable working atmosphere.