Japan Tobacco transfers pharmaceuticals to Shionogi

Japan Tobacco Inc. announced the transfer of its pharmaceutical business, including Torii, to Shionogi, impacting its long-term growth outlook. The decision stems from increasing international competition and restrictions on joint research and development due to the company's tobacco products. The company believes these factors create uncertainty for the pharmaceutical business's future. The transfer to Shionogi, a global pharmaceutical company, aims to ensure the continued development and provision of prescription drugs. The company entered the pharmaceutical business in 1987.