The dynamics of the Italian cigarette market are changing rapidly as new players, attracted by the opportunities created in the wake of the monopoly's privatisation, jostle with established companies. And the market can expect more change now that the competition authorities have delivered their judgement on ETI's sale. ALEXIS STACCHINI reports. The Italian cigarette market was last year characterised by fierce competition, increased price sensitivity and, in the midst of the privatisation of Ente Tabacchi Italiani (ETI), the embolden-ment of more recent entrants. The local tobacco industry had to contend also with the effects of a stagnant economy, large public debt and high unemployment.
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