Clove Cigarettes Market – Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Cigarette Type (Hand Rolled, Machine Made Kreteks (Full-Flavored), Machine Made Kreteks (Low Tar Nicotine)), By End User (Male, Female), By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline), By Region & Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The global Clove Cigarettes Market was valued at USD 118.23 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 163.52 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.61% during the forecast period. The growth of the market is fueled by rising consumer interest in flavored tobacco products like clove cigarettes. Additionally, expanding online retail channels enhance accessibility, while targeted marketing campaigns focusing on young adults and middle-aged consumers further drive demand.

According to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) tobacco trends report, there are 1.25 billion adult tobacco users globally. Tobacco use has been decreasing in 150 countries, with Brazil and the Netherlands seeing notable success. The WHO South-East Asian Region has the highest tobacco use at 26.5%, followed by the European Region at 25.3%. The report projects that by 2030, the European Region will have the highest global tobacco rates, with a notable disparity in tobacco use among women, which is reducing slower than in other regions.

Market Drivers

Globalization and International Market Expansion

While clove cigarettes have long been popular in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, they have recently gained attention in international markets, including the United States and Europe. The appeal of clove cigarettes is part of a broader trend in which consumers are increasingly exposed to international and exotic products. This exposure is not just limited to physical stores but extends to online platforms, making clove cigarettes accessible to a wider audience. For example, companies have made significant inroads in selling clove cigarettes in non-traditional markets where they were previously unfamiliar. This expansion has been supported by marketing strategies that emphasize the exotic and appealing aspects of clove cigarettes, positioning them as a premium or more sophisticated alternative to traditional tobacco products. As international demand continues to grow, manufacturers are finding opportunities to expand their footprint, increasing production and availability in diverse regions.

Cultural Popularity in Specific Regions

A major driver of the clove cigarettes market is its cultural significance, especially in countries like Indonesia, where clove cigarettes, known as "kretek," have been a traditional part of local smoking habits for centuries. Kretek cigarettes are often linked to social customs and daily routines, making them more than just a smoking product, but a cultural symbol. In Indonesia, they are consumed widely across various age groups, and many see them as an integral part of their social and ceremonial activities. This deep-rooted cultural connection creates strong demand for clove cigarettes, driving both local consumption and exports to other regions. As clove cigarettes become more known internationally, their appeal is also spreading to Western countries, where the exotic and flavorful nature of kretek cigarettes is drawing attention. In addition, this cultural prominence provides an avenue for growth in regions like Southeast Asia, where clove cigarettes hold substantial market share.

Increasing Demand for Unique and Flavored Tobacco Products

As global tobacco consumption trends shift towards novelty and variety, there is a rising demand for flavored tobacco products, including clove cigarettes. Traditional cigarettes with their plain, harsh flavor are gradually being replaced by more flavorful alternatives. Clove cigarettes offer a distinctive smoking experience, combining the sharpness of tobacco with the aromatic sweetness of cloves, which many smokers find more pleasurable. This demand for unique and aromatic experiences in tobacco products is being driven by younger generations seeking alternatives to traditional smoking. Moreover, the flavored tobacco trend fits well with a broader global shift towards more diverse and enjoyable consumption experiences. For instance, Kretek International, Inc. has introduced two new nicotine-free Djarum Bliss styles, Djarum Bliss Special and Djarum Bliss Java, expanding its lineup of zero-tobacco products. With six distinct flavors, the range offers retailers more options for planning nicotine-free shelf sets. Djarum Bliss Special builds on the brand’s loyal customer base, known for its smooth clove taste and aroma. This addition strengthens Djarum's presence in tobacco-free offerings and supports future retail strategies based on consumer preferences. 

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Key Market Challenges

Regulatory Challenges and Health Concerns

The clove cigarettes market faces significant challenges due to increasing regulatory scrutiny and health concerns. As governments across the globe intensify efforts to reduce tobacco consumption, the tobacco industry is grappling with stricter regulations. Many countries have imposed higher taxes on tobacco products, restricted their sale, and implemented plain packaging laws to discourage smoking. Furthermore, concerns about the health risks associated with smoking, including the link between tobacco and various diseases like lung cancer and respiratory issues, have led to growing anti-smoking campaigns. This has been particularly problematic for clove cigarettes, which, like traditional tobacco products, are under the same regulatory frameworks. The inclusion of cloves in the cigarette products also adds to concerns regarding health risks, particularly for those who may not be aware of the different ingredients in these cigarettes.

Competition from Other Flavored and Alternative Tobacco Products

The clove cigarettes market also faces stiff competition from other flavored tobacco products, as well as newer alternatives to smoking such as e-cigarettes and vaping devices. Flavored tobacco has grown increasingly popular in many markets, with products like menthol, fruit-flavored, and herbal cigarettes offering unique and customizable smoking experiences. This variety makes it harder for clove cigarettes to differentiate themselves, particularly in regions where traditional tobacco products dominate. Moreover, the rise of e-cigarettes and vaping has led to a shift away from conventional smoking, as many consumers perceive these alternatives as less harmful. The increasing popularity of these alternatives has made it difficult for clove cigarettes to maintain their niche, especially as health-conscious consumers opt for what they believe to be safer alternatives.

Key Market Trends

Shift Towards Health-Conscious and Premium Products

One of the notable trends in the clove cigarettes market is the shift toward health-conscious and premium products. While traditional cigarettes have long been linked to various health risks, clove cigarettes are perceived by some consumers as a less harmful alternative due to their exotic nature and perceived natural ingredients, such as cloves. However, the growing global health consciousness and anti-smoking campaigns are influencing the demand for higher-quality and less harmful tobacco alternatives. This trend has prompted manufacturers to innovate, offering premium clove cigarettes with improved quality, using high-grade tobacco, and premium cloves. These premium products often target affluent smokers who are looking for a distinct and flavorful smoking experience. For instance, Kretek International's launch of nicotine-free Djarum Bliss clove smokes in 2024, targeting the U.S. and Canadian markets, reflects the growing demand for tobacco-free options, especially among health-conscious consumers. This shift aligns with the broader trend in the tobacco industry, where brands are diversifying their offerings by introducing various flavors like vanilla, mango, and apple. These efforts cater to younger audiences and expand the market’s appeal, contributing to the increasing popularity of flavored and nicotine-free clove cigarettes globally.

Rising Popularity in Emerging Market

The growing popularity of clove cigarettes in emerging markets, particularly in Southeast Asia, Africa, and parts of the Middle East, is another significant trend. Countries like Indonesia, where clove cigarettes (kretek) are a long-standing cultural tradition, have already experienced high demand for these products, and now, other regions are following suit. In Africa, the Middle East, and even Latin America, clove cigarettes are being increasingly adopted, especially in urban centers where globalization and the influence of Western brands are opening doors for unique consumer products like flavored cigarettes. Additionally, in parts of these emerging markets, the younger demographic is becoming more experimental in their preferences, and the sweet, fragrant aroma of clove cigarettes, along with their perceived exoticism, is gaining traction.

Segmental Insights

Cigarette Type Insights

Machine Made Kreteks (full-flavored) was the dominant segment in the clove cigarettes market due to several factors. Their widespread popularity is primarily driven by their affordability, consistent quality, and mass production efficiency. These kreteks, made using automated machines, provide a standardized and reliable smoking experience, which is essential for meeting the large-scale demand in markets like Indonesia, where the product holds cultural significance. Unlike handmade kreteks, machine-made varieties offer a richer and bolder flavor, catering to the taste preferences of a wide demographic. The production cost advantages of machine-made kreteks allow manufacturers to keep prices competitive, making them the preferred option for consumers seeking a full-flavored clove cigarette at an accessible price. As the global market for clove cigarettes continues to grow, particularly in Southeast Asia and other emerging markets, machine-made kreteks are poised to maintain their dominance due to their efficient production processes and broad appeal.

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Regional Insights

North America lead the global clove cigarettes market, driven by increasing consumer interest in exotic and flavored products. The popularity of clove cigarettes in the region can be attributed to their unique taste, which offers a distinct alternative to traditional tobacco. Additionally, North America's large, diverse population with evolving preferences for premium and flavored smoking products has further fueled the demand for clove cigarettes. The presence of key distributors and retail networks has also contributed to the market's growth. Despite the ongoing anti-smoking campaigns, the appeal of clove cigarettes as an exotic and premium product continues to sustain market leadership in the region.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Kretek International launched nicotine-free Djarum Bliss clove smokes in two flavors, aiming to expand into the U.S. and Canada market by the end of 2024.
• In 2023, Global Investment Holding Co. (GIHC) successfully acquired a 30% stake in Eastern Co., a leading Egyptian tobacco company. This acquisition is part of Egypt’s broader privatization strategy.
• In 2024, Kretek International Inc., known for Djarum Black filtered clove cigars, introduced Djarum Black Bliss, a tobacco- and nicotine-free clove smoke available in four varieties: Emerald, Ivory, Ruby, and Original. These cigarette-style products are sold in 20-packs at convenience stores and tobacco shops across California, with availability extending to retailers and distributors in New England.
• In 2023, Hertz Flavors marked its first anniversary in Indonesia by inaugurating a USD 5 million factory in Mojokerto. The facility produces ISO-certified flavors like apple and mango, with a focus on sustainability, serving the country's tobacco industry.

Key Market Players

• Philip Morris Products S.A.
• PT. Gudang Garam Tbk
• PT Djarum
• Nojorono Tobacco Indonesia
• JT International SA
• PT Bentoel Internasional Investama Tbk
• Wismilak Group
• Kretek International, Inc.
• Khyber Tobacco Company 
• ITC Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the global Clove Cigarettes Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• ·         Clove Cigarettes Market, By Cigarette Type:

o   Hand Rolled

o   Machine Made Kreteks (Full-Flavored)

o   Machine Made Kreteks (Low Tar Nicotine)      

• ·         Clove Cigarettes Market, By End User:

o   Male

o   Female

• ·         Clove Cigarettes Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Online

o   Offline

• ·         Clove Cigarettes Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  Germany

§  Spain

§  Italy

§  United Kingdom

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  Japan

§  India

§  Vietnam

§  South Korea

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  Turkey

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the global Clove Cigarettes Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Clove Cigarettes Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).