Eastern Mediterranean tobacco, a product steeped in history and tradition, has a unique place in the global tobacco market. Its distinct aroma and flavor profile set it apart, making it a sought-after commodity. But what is it about this particular tobacco that makes it so special? How has it shaped, and been shaped by, the cultures and economies of the Eastern Mediterranean region? Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Eastern Mediterranean tobacco, exploring its history, its cultural significance, and its impact on the global stage.
Evolution of Tobacco Usage
Over time, the use of tobacco in the Eastern Mediterranean has evolved significantly. Initially, it was primarily consumed in traditional forms such as waterpipes, also known as shisha, goza, narghile, ghalyoon, or hookah . However, with the influence of Western culture and the advent of cigarettes, the methods of tobacco consumption have diversified .
Tobacco Farming Practices
Tobacco farming in the Eastern Mediterranean region is a labor-intensive process. The climate of the region, characterized by its arid desert conditions, plays a significant role in the growth and quality of the tobacco .
Impact of Climate on Tobacco Growth
The arid climate of the Eastern Mediterranean region contributes to the unique flavor profiles of the tobacco grown there. The lack of rainfall and high temperatures stress the tobacco plants, leading to the production of leaves with a high concentration of aromatic compounds .
Popular Tobacco Varieties
There are several popular varieties of tobacco grown in the Eastern Mediterranean region. One of the most well-known is Latakia, a type of tobacco known for its rich, smoky flavor. It is traditionally used in pipe tobacco blends but has also found its way into some avant-garde cigar and cigarette productions .
Unique Flavors and Their Appeal
Eastern Mediterranean tobacco is known for its unique flavors. These range from the dry and creamy Turkish Izmir to the beautifully smoky Cypriot Latakia. These flavors are particularly appealing to experienced smokers who appreciate the rich and pungent tastes .
Traditional Methods of Tobacco Consumption
Traditional methods of tobacco consumption in the Eastern Mediterranean region include the use of waterpipes. This method is particularly popular in the region, where it is often seen as a part of the local culture and heritage .
Modern Trends in Tobacco Usage
In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of flavored tobacco, particularly among young people. Flavors such as apple, strawberry, grape, cherry, mint, and cappuccino have become increasingly popular .
Role in Local Economies
Tobacco plays a significant role in the economies of many Eastern Mediterranean countries. Despite the region accounting for less than 1% of tobacco leaf growing in Africa, it accounts for almost 39% of total tobacco leaf imported by Africa and about 63.3% of Africa s total cigarette imports .
Global Trade and Influence
Eastern Mediterranean tobacco has a significant influence on global trade. Luxury Egyptian cigarette brands, for example, are exported worldwide .
Future of Tobacco in the Eastern Mediterranean
The future of tobacco in the Eastern Mediterranean region is likely to be influenced by ongoing efforts to control its use and promote healthier alternatives. However, the deep-rooted cultural significance of tobacco in the region means that it will likely continue to play a significant role in the foreseeable future .
what are the main achievements and future of tobacco control in the eastern mediterranean region
The Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) has made significant strides in tobacco control, but there are still challenges to overcome and areas for future focus.
Main Achievements
One of the main achievements in the EMR is the implementation of the MPOWER measures, a set of six effective tobacco control policies recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). These measures include monitoring tobacco use and prevention policies, protecting people from tobacco smoke, offering help to quit tobacco use, warning about the dangers of tobacco, enforcing bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, and raising taxes on tobacco .
Several countries in the region have scored highly in implementing these measures. For instance, Iran, Jordan, and Egypt have scored over 50 out of 100 in the implementation of the six major MPOWER policies . Iran, in particular, has been consistently ranked first in the region for its tobacco control efforts .
The region has also seen improvements in the coordination between WHO, the League of Arab States, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This has led to the review and development of national and regional legislation reflecting the need for tobacco control .
Future of Tobacco Control
Despite these achievements, the prevalence of tobacco use in the EMR is projected to increase, indicating that more work needs to be done . The tobacco industry’s influence, particularly in areas of the region lacking stability, is a significant challenge to tobacco control efforts .
Future efforts should focus on implementing tobacco control policies at the highest level, which could lead to a significant reduction in smoking prevalence . Priorities should include lifting more people out of the lowest level of coverage for tobacco control measures, increasing taxation on tobacco products, and improving access to services for quitting tobacco .
Some countries need to focus on specific areas of tobacco control. For example, Iran, Kuwait, Iraq, and Libya should work more on tobacco taxation, while Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait, Libya, Afghanistan, and Djibouti should prioritize mass media campaigns .
what are the different types of tobacco grown in the eastern mediterranean region
The Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) is known for various types of tobacco use, with some forms being traditional to the region. The types of tobacco grown and used in the EMR include:
- Cigarette Tobacco: This is the most common form of tobacco used worldwide and is also prevalent in the EMR. Cigarette smoking is widespread across the region .
- Waterpipe Tobacco: Also known as shisha or hookah, waterpipe tobacco smoking is a traditional method of tobacco use that originated in the EMR and has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially among young people . This method involves smoking tobacco, often flavored, through a water basin.
- Medwakh: This is an Arabic traditional pipe used for smoking tobacco, particularly in the Gulf countries. It is a small pipe that is often filled with a type of tobacco called dokha, which is a blend of herbs, spices, and tobacco .
- Smokeless Tobacco: This includes forms like sweika, which is used without burning. Users consume it by chewing or placing it in the mouth in other ways .
- Electronic Cigarettes: Although not a traditional form of tobacco, the use of electronic cigarettes, which vaporize a liquid containing nicotine, has been reported in the region .
- Heat-not-burn Tobacco Products: These are electronic devices that heat tobacco to a high temperature without burning it, supposedly reducing the amount of harmful chemicals released .
Conclusion
Eastern Mediterranean tobacco, with its unique flavors and deep-rooted cultural significance, continues to be a significant part of the region’s identity. However, with increasing health concerns and the implementation of tobacco control measures, the future of tobacco in the region is set to evolve. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how these changes shape the landscape of tobacco in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Statistics:
The Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) accounts for less than 1% of tobacco leaf growing in Africa but has significant trade volumes in the import of tobacco leaf and/or cigarettes. This region accounts for almost 39% of total tobacco leaf imported by Africa and about 63.3% of Africa s total cigarette imports .
FAQs:
- What is Eastern Mediterranean tobacco?
- Eastern Mediterranean tobacco, also known as Oriental tobacco, is grown in the arid desert climate of the Middle East and Mediterranean. It is known for its unique flavor and aroma .
- Where is Eastern Mediterranean tobacco grown?
- Eastern Mediterranean tobacco is grown in the Middle East and Mediterranean region, in countries like Syria, Egypt, and Iran .
- How is Eastern Mediterranean tobacco cultivated?
- The cultivation of Eastern Mediterranean tobacco begins with the planting of seeds in carefully prepared fields. The plants are nurtured with great care, ensuring they receive the right amount of sunlight and water .
- Why is Eastern Mediterranean tobacco sought after?
- Eastern Mediterranean tobacco is sought after for its unique flavor and aroma, which sets it apart in the global tobacco market .
- Who are the main consumers of Eastern Mediterranean tobacco?
- Eastern Mediterranean tobacco is a prized commodity for tobacco enthusiasts worldwide .
- Can Eastern Mediterranean tobacco cultivation affect the local economy?
- Yes, Eastern Mediterranean tobacco is a significant crop in the region, contributing significantly to the global tobacco industry .
- Does Eastern Mediterranean tobacco have different varieties?
- Yes, Eastern Mediterranean tobacco includes varieties such as Nicotiana rustica and Nicotiana tabacum .
- What is the role of the WHO in Eastern Mediterranean tobacco control?
- The WHO provides technical support to undertake policy research on various aspects of tobacco control, including monitoring of tobacco industry activities in the Eastern Mediterranean Region .
- How has the cultivation of Eastern Mediterranean tobacco evolved over the years?
- Over the years, the cultivation of Eastern Mediterranean tobacco has evolved, with modern techniques enhancing the quality and flavor of the crop .
- What are the challenges facing tobacco dependence treatment in the Eastern Mediterranean Region?
- The region faces challenges such as non-uniform political commitment to tobacco control, interference from the tobacco industry, and inadequate tobacco dependence treatment services .
- What is the prevalence of tobacco use in the Eastern Mediterranean Region?
- The prevalence of tobacco use in the region is increasing, posing a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases .
- What measures are being taken to promote cessation of tobacco use in the Eastern Mediterranean Region?
- Measures such as price measures and pictorial warnings on tobacco products are being implemented to promote cessation of tobacco use in the region .
- How does the Eastern Mediterranean Region contribute to Africa’s tobacco leaf import?
- The Eastern Mediterranean Region accounts for almost 39% of total tobacco leaf imported by Africa .
- What is the role of the Eastern Mediterranean Region in Africa’s cigarette imports?
- The Eastern Mediterranean Region accounts for about 63.3% of Africa s total cigarette imports .
- Is Eastern Mediterranean tobacco a significant crop in the region?
- Yes, Eastern Mediterranean tobacco is a significant crop in the region, contributing significantly to the global tobacco industry .
Sources of information:
- “Eastern Mediterranean Region – TobaccoTactics” https://tobaccotactics.org/article/eastern-mediterranean-region/
- “Key observations of tobacco production and trade in Africa” https://www.who.int/initiatives/tobacco-free-farms/key-observations-of-tobacco-production-and-trade-in-africa
- “Factors influencing the tobacco control policy process in Egypt and Iran: a scoping review” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5683450/
- “Latakia (tobacco) – Wikipedia” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latakia_(tobacco)
- “WHO EMRO | What we do” https://www.emro.who.int/tfi/what-we-do/index.html
- “Seeds of change: Syria swaps tobacco for sustainable crops” https://www.emro.who.int/syria/news/seeds-of-change-syria-swaps-tobacco-for-sustainable-crops.html
- “A comparative study of tobacco control scale score in the Eastern Mediterranean Region countries” https://www.emro.who.int/emhj-volume-29-2023/volume-29-issue-12/a-comparative-study-of-tobacco-control-scale-score-in-the-eastern-mediterranean-region-countries.html
- “Shammah (Smokeless Tobacco) and Public Health” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5555521/
- “Tobacco control in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: overview and way forward” https://www.emro.who.int/emhj-volume-14-2008/volume-14-supplement/tobacco-control-in-the-eastern-mediterranean-region-overview-and-way-forward.html
- “Eastern Mediterranean Tobacco: From Seed to Smoke” https://fretlandtheband.com/eastern-mediterranean-tobacco.php
- “Advancing Tobacco Dependence Treatment Services in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: International collaboration for training and capacity-building” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4205053/
- “Mediterranean Tobacco: From Seed to Smoke” https://santurisafari.org/mediterranean-tobacco.asp
Citations:
The information provided in this article is based on authoritative sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) https://www.who.int/initiatives/tobacco-free-farms/key-observations-of-tobacco-production-and-trade-in-africa
https://www.emro.who.int/tfi/what-we-do/index.html
https://www.emro.who.int/emhj-volume-29-2023/volume-29-issue-12/a-comparative-study-of-tobacco-control-scale-score-in-the-eastern-mediterranean-region-countries.html
https://www.emro.who.int/emhj-volume-14-2008/volume-14-supplement/tobacco-control-in-the-eastern-mediterranean-region-overview-and-way-forward.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4205053/, TobaccoTactics https://tobaccotactics.org/article/eastern-mediterranean-region/, and various scientific articles https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5683450/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5555521/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4205053/.