FOCUS: Greater China - Tobacco net tightens with new controls in Hong Kong

<p>Tobacco companies in Hong Kong are likely to significantly increase </p><p>their spending in below-the-line activities from the beginning of this </p><p>year, when all tobacco ads were banned from all magazines and </p><p>newspapers. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>From 1990, the government has put in place a series of anti-smoking </p><p>measures including banishing tobacco ads from television and radio and </p><p>outdoor signages. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>After the print legislation comes into force, tobacco companies will be </p><p>completely isolated from the mainstream media. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>However, they will likely throw more money into sponsorship campaigns </p><p>since the holding companies for tobacco brands can still sponsor sports </p><p>and cultural activities. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>In addition, they are expected to conduct more pin-point target </p><p>marketing campaigns, especially through direct mail activities. </p><p><BR><BR> </p>