UNIVERSAL CORP /VA/

Previous wording

Universal Corporation is a global business-to-business agriproducts company with over 100 years of experience supplying products and innovative solutions to meet our customers’ evolving needs. With operations in over 30 countries on five continents, we believe we are uniquely positioned to leverage our worldwide network to access a diverse, reliable supply of plant-based materials. This presence, combined with our supply chain expertise, integrated processing capabilities, and commitment to sustainability, enables us to deliver high-quality, customizable, and traceable value-added agriproducts essential to our customers’ success.

Current wording

Universal Corporation is a global business-to-business agriproducts company with over 100 years of experience supplying products and innovative solutions to meet our customers’ evolving needs. With operations in over 30 countries on five continents, we believe we are uniquely positioned to leverage our worldwide network to access a diverse, reliable supply of plant-based materials. This presence, combined with our supply chain expertise, integrated processing capabilities, and commitment to sustainability, enables us to deliver high-quality, customizable, and traceable value-added agriproducts essential to our customers’ success. We operate in two segments: Tobacco Operations and Ingredients Operations. Our Tobacco Operations segment primarily focuses on procuring and processing flue-cured, burley, dark air-cured, and oriental leaf tobacco for consumer product manufacturers. Our Ingredients Operations segment, through the Universal Ingredients platform, produces and supplies a broad portfolio of products, including fruit and vegetable juices and concentrates, purees, dehydrated products, botanical extracts, flavorings, colorings, and other customized, value-added ingredient solutions to the food and beverage industry.

Previous wording

Selling, general, and administrative expenses were down by 2%, or $5.3 million, on $12.2 million of higher recoveries of farmer advances, the absence of $4.8 million in costs related to the settlement of a value-added tax settlement program in fiscal year 2024, and $3.5 million of lower compensation costs, offset in part by $8.2 million of higher legal and professional fees and $7.2 million of higher sales commissions.

Current wording

Selling, general, and administrative expenses were down by 2%, or $4.6 million, on $8.8 million of lower sales commissions, $5.1 million of lower compensation costs, and $3.5 million of favorable foreign currency comparisons, offset in part by $4.3 million of lower recoveries on advances to suppliers and $2.0 million of higher customer claims.

Previous wording

Cost of goods sold increased by 8%, or $186.2 million, in fiscal year 2025, compared to fiscal year 2024, largely on higher tobacco prices and a $10.5 million increase in inventory write-downs.

Current wording

Cost of goods sold increased by 1%, or $13.8 million, in fiscal year 2026, compared to fiscal year 2025, largely on a $32.2 million increase in inventory write-downs partially offset by lower tobacco prices.

Previous wording

Restructuring and impairment costs of $10.6 million in fiscal year 2025 were related to the previously announced consolidation of the Company’s European tobacco sheet operations.

Current wording

A non-cash, goodwill impairment charge of $41.1 million was recognized in fiscal year 2026. Restructuring and impairment costs of $10.6 million in fiscal year 2025 were related to the consolidation of the Company’s European tobacco sheet operations.

Previous wording

In March 2025, we completed a pension de-risking transaction or “pension lift-out” to transfer approximately $47 million of our Company-sponsored defined benefit pension plan obligations and assets to a third-party insurer through the purchase of a non-participating annuity. The obligations transferred to the third-party insurer covered the respective benefit obligations for a subset of retirees currently receiving benefit payments. The transaction triggered settlement accounting that required us to immediately recognize a portion of the accumulated comprehensive losses associated with the defined benefit pension plan. The non-cash pension settlement charge of $14.1 million was recognized in our consolidated statements of income for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025.

Current wording

A non-cash pension settlement charge of $14.1 million was recognized in fiscal year 2025.

Previous wording

The consolidated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2025 was 26.6%. The consolidated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2024 was 19%. The consolidated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2025 was higher than the consolidated tax rate for fiscal year 2024 due to various factors, including the mix and timing of domestic and foreign earnings, discrete items, and the effect of exchange rate changes on taxes coupled with an minimal income tax benefit associated with the restructuring and impairment costs recognized for the consolidation of the sheet operations in fiscal year 2025.

Current wording

The consolidated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2026 was 45.5%. The consolidated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2025 was 26.6%. The consolidated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2026 was higher than the consolidated tax rate for fiscal year 2025 due to various factors, including the mix and timing of domestic and foreign earnings, discrete items including increased withholding taxes on undistributed earnings in Brazil, and the tax deductibility of certain items.

Previous wording

(2) Restructuring and impairment costs are included in consolidated operating income in the consolidated statements of income, but excluded for purposes of Adjusted operating income, Adjusted net income available to Universal Corporation, and Adjusted diluted earnings per share. See Note 3 for additional information.

Current wording

(1) Restructuring and impairment costs are included in Consolidated operating income in the consolidated statements of income, but excluded for purposes of Adjusted operating income, Adjusted net income attributable to Universal Corporation, and Adjusted diluted earnings per share. The three months ended March 31, 2026, included a $41.1 impairment charge to write-off the full amount of goodwill associated with Shank's, a component of the Ingredients Operations segment.

Previous wording

In fiscal year 2025, our liquidity was sufficient to meet our needs. We continued our financial policies and disciplines and returned funds to shareholders. Due to market conditions in Brazil, we made the strategic decision in the quarter ended March 31, 2024, to accelerate tobacco purchases there. Therefore, some of our working capital investments for the Brazil crop that typically would have been made in our fiscal year 2025, were made in our fiscal year 2024, reducing required working capital in fiscal year 2025.

Current wording

In fiscal year 2026, our liquidity was sufficient to meet our needs. We continued our financial policies and disciplines and returned funds to shareholders. Our working capital requirements were higher in fiscal year 2026, compared to fiscal year 2025. Some working capital investments expected in fiscal year 2025 were made in fiscal year 2024 due to market conditions, which reduced working capital requirements in fiscal year 2025.

Previous wording

Our liquidity and capital resource requirements are predominately short-term in nature and primarily relate to working capital for tobacco crop purchases, and our primary sources of liquidity are net cash flows provided by operating activities and our committed revolving credit facility. Working capital needs for tobacco crop purchases are seasonal within each geographic region. The geographic dispersion and the timing of working capital needs permit us to anticipate our general level of cash requirements, although tobacco crop size, prices paid to farmers, shipment and delivery timing, and currency fluctuations affect requirements each year. Peak working capital requirements are generally reached during the first and second fiscal quarters. Each tobacco production region follows a cycle of buying, processing, and shipping tobacco, and in many regions we also provide agricultural materials to tobacco farmers during the growing season. The timing of the elements of each cycle is influenced by such factors as local weather conditions and individual customer shipping requirements, which may change the level or the duration of tobacco crop financing. In contrast to our Tobacco Operations, working capital requirements for our Ingredients Operations tend to be lower and less seasonal. Despite a predominance of short-term needs for working capital, we maintain a portion of our total debt as long-term to reduce liquidity risk. We also periodically may have large cash balances that we utilize to meet our working capital requirements.

Current wording

Our liquidity and capital resource requirements are predominately short-term in nature and primarily relate to working capital for tobacco crop purchases, and our primary sources of liquidity are net cash flows provided by operating activities, our committed revolving credit facility, and short-term, uncommitted credit lines. Working capital needs for tobacco crop purchases are seasonal within each geographic region. The geographic dispersion and the timing of working capital needs permit us to anticipate our general level of cash requirements, although tobacco crop sizes, prices paid to farmers, shipment and delivery timing, and currency fluctuations affect requirements each year. Peak working capital requirements are generally reached during the first and second fiscal quarters. Each tobacco production region follows a cycle of buying, processing, and shipping tobacco, and in many regions, we also provide agricultural materials to tobacco farmers during the growing season. The timing of the elements of each cycle is influenced by such factors as local weather conditions and individual customer shipping requirements, which may change the level or the duration of tobacco crop financing. In contrast to our Tobacco Operations, working capital requirements for our Ingredients Operations tend to be lower and less seasonal. Despite a predominance of short-term needs for working capital, we maintain a portion of our total debt as long-term to reduce liquidity risk. We also periodically may have large cash balances that we utilize to meet our working capital requirements.

Previous wording

We believe that our financial resources are adequate to support our anticipated capital and liquidity needs for the upcoming next 12 months and beyond. Our seasonal borrowing requirements primarily relate to purchasing tobacco crops in South America and Africa and can increase during the buying season for those crops by up to $400 million. The funding required can vary significantly depending upon such factors as crop sizes, the price of leaf, the relative strength of the U.S. dollar, and the timing of shipments and customer payments. We deal with this uncertainty by maintaining substantial credit lines and cash balances. In addition to our operating requirements for working capital, we make capital expenditures to maintain our facilities and invest in opportunities to grow and improve our businesses.

Current wording

We believe that our financial resources are adequate to support our anticipated capital and liquidity needs for the upcoming 12 months and beyond. Our seasonal borrowing requirements primarily relate to purchasing tobacco crops in South America and Africa and can increase during the buying season for those crops by up to $400 million. The funding required can vary significantly depending upon such factors as crop sizes, the price of leaf tobacco, the relative strength of the U.S. dollar, and the timing of shipments and customer payments. We deal with this uncertainty by maintaining substantial credit lines and cash balances. In addition to our operating requirements for working capital, we make capital expenditures to maintain our facilities and invest in opportunities to grow and improve our businesses.

Previous wording

Our operations generated about $327.0 million in operating cash flows in fiscal year 2025. That amount was about $401.6 million higher than the $74.6 million we used in fiscal year 2024, primarily on lower working capital requirements in fiscal year 2025, due to accelerated tobacco purchasing in Brazil in fiscal year 2024. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, we spent $62.6 million on capital projects, and we returned $79.7 million to shareholders in the form of dividends. At March 31, 2025, cash balances totaled $260.1 million.

Current wording

Our operations generated about $129.1 million in operating cash flows in fiscal year 2026. That amount was about $197.9 million lower than the $327.0 million we generated in fiscal year 2025, primarily on lower working capital requirements in fiscal year 2025, due to certain tobacco purchases that would have typically been made in fiscal year 2025 having been made in fiscal year 2024. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026, we spent $53.5 million on capital projects, and we returned $81.3 million to shareholders in the form of dividends. At March 31, 2026, cash balances totaled $62.2 million.

Previous wording

Working capital at March 31, 2025, was about $1.4 billion, up about $14.8 million from last fiscal year’s level, as higher cash and account receivable balances largely offset lower tobacco inventory levels. Tobacco inventories of $806.3 million at March 31, 2025, were down $264.2 million compared to inventory levels at the end of the prior fiscal year, due to accelerated tobacco purchases in fiscal year 2024. Advances to suppliers were up $30.3 million at March 31, 2025, from prior year levels largely on higher crop costs in fiscal year 2025. We generally do not purchase material quantities of leaf tobacco on a speculative basis. However, when we contract directly with tobacco farmers, we are obligated to buy all stalk positions, which may contain less marketable leaf styles. Our uncommitted tobacco inventories decreased by approximately $17.2 million to $164.0 million, or about 20% of tobacco inventory, at March 31, 2025, compared to March 31, 2024 levels. Uncommitted inventories at March 31, 2024, were $181.1 million, which represented 17% of tobacco inventory. While we target committed tobacco inventory levels of 80% or more of total tobacco inventory, the level of these uncommitted inventories is influenced by timing of farmer deliveries and purchases of new crops, as well as the receipt of customer orders.

Current wording

We generally do not purchase material quantities of leaf tobacco on a speculative basis. However, when we contract directly with tobacco farmers, we are obligated to buy all stalk positions, which may contain less marketable leaf styles. Our uncommitted tobacco inventories increased by approximately $58.3 million to $222.3 million, or about 27% of tobacco inventory, at March 31, 2026, compared to March 31, 2025 levels. Uncommitted inventories at March 31, 2025, were $164.0 million, which represented 20% of tobacco inventory. While we target committed tobacco inventory levels of 80% or more of total tobacco inventory, the level of these uncommitted inventories is influenced by timing of farmer deliveries and purchases of new crops, as well as the receipt of customer orders. Uncommitted tobacco levels were outside our target range at March 31, 2026, due to delayed customer purchase commitments, but we expect them to be within our range during fiscal year 2027.

Previous wording

Our Board of Directors approved our current share repurchase program in November 2024. The program authorizes the purchase of up to $100 million of our common stock through November 15, 2026. Under the current authorization, we may purchase shares from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions at prices not exceeding prevailing market rates. Repurchases of shares under the repurchase program may vary based on management discretion, as well as changes in cash flow generation and availability. We did not repurchase any shares of common stock in fiscal year 2025. At March 31, 2025, our available authorization under our current share repurchase program was $100 million, and approximately 24.7 million common shares were outstanding.

Current wording

Our Board of Directors approved our current share repurchase program in November 2024. The program authorizes the purchase of up to $100 million of our common stock through November 15, 2026. Under the current authorization, we may purchase shares from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions at prices not exceeding prevailing market rates. Repurchases of shares under the repurchase program may vary based on management discretion, as well as changes in cash flow generation and availability. We did not repurchase any shares of common stock in fiscal year 2026. At March 31, 2026, our available authorization under our current share repurchase program was $100 million.

Previous wording

Our capital expenditures are generally limited to those that add value, replace or maintain equipment, increase efficiency, or position us for future growth. In deciding where to invest capital resources, we look for opportunities where we believe we can earn an adequate return, leverage our assets and expertise, and support our farmer base. During fiscal years 2025 and 2024, we invested $66.6 million and $66.0 million, respectively, in our property, plant, and equipment. Capital expenditures in fiscal years 2025 and 2024 included investments to expand Universal Ingredients’ manufacturing capabilities in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Depreciation expense was approximately $48.7 million and $47.1 million, respectively, in fiscal years 2025 and 2024. Typically, our capital expenditures for maintenance projects are less than $30 million per fiscal year. We currently plan to spend approximately $45 to $55 million in fiscal year 2026 on capital projects for maintenance of our facilities and other investments to grow and improve our businesses.

Current wording

Our capital expenditures are generally limited to those that add value, replace or maintain equipment, increase efficiency, or position us for future growth. In deciding where to invest capital resources, we look for opportunities where we believe we can earn an adequate return, leverage our assets and expertise, and support our farmer base. During fiscal years 2026 and 2025, we invested $53.5 million and $62.6 million, respectively, in our property, plant, and equipment. Capital expenditures in fiscal year 2025 included investments to expand Universal Ingredients’ manufacturing capabilities in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Depreciation expense was approximately $44.2 million and $48.7 million, respectively, in fiscal years 2026 and 2025. Typically, our capital expenditures for maintenance projects are less than $30 million per fiscal year. We currently plan to spend approximately $55 to $65 million in fiscal year 2027 on capital projects for maintenance of our facilities and other investments to grow and improve our businesses.

Previous wording

At March 31, 2025, we had $1.1 billion in total debt outstanding, an increase of $38.4 million, compared to March 31, 2024 levels. We consider the sum of notes payable and overdrafts, long-term debt (including any current portion), and customer advances and deposits, less cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments on our balance sheet to be our net debt. We also consider our net debt plus shareholders’ equity to be our net capitalization. Net debt decreased by $179.6 million to $816.6 million during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. The decrease in net debt reflects lower working capital requirements. Net debt as a percentage of net capitalization was 36% at March 31, 2025, down from 41% at March 31, 2024.

Current wording

At March 31, 2026, we had $904.3 million in total debt outstanding, a decrease of $168.7 million, compared to March 31, 2025 levels. We consider the sum of notes payable and overdrafts, long-term debt (including any current portion), and customer advances and deposits, less cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments on our balance sheet to be our net debt. We also consider our net debt plus shareholders’ equity to be our net capitalization. Net debt increased by $28.9 million to $845.5 million during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026. The increase in net debt reflects higher working capital requirements. Net debt as a percentage of net capitalization was 37% at March 31, 2026, up from 36% at March 31, 2025.

Previous wording

As of March 31, 2025, we had $270 million available under the committed revolving credit facility that will mature in December 2027, and we, together with our consolidated affiliates, had approximately $466 million in uncommitted lines of credit, of which approximately $271 million were unused and available to support seasonal working capital needs. The financial covenants under our committed revolving credit facility require us to maintain certain levels of tangible net worth and observe restrictions on debt levels. Based on our March 31, 2025 financial statements, we were in compliance with all financial covenants of our debt agreements as of March 31, 2025. We have no long-term debt maturing until fiscal year 2028.

Current wording

As of March 31, 2026, we had $730 million available under the committed revolving credit facility that will mature in December 2030, and we, together with our consolidated affiliates, had approximately $702 million in uncommitted lines of credit, of which approximately $465 million were unused and available to support seasonal working capital needs. Based on our March 31, 2026 financial statements, we were in compliance with all financial covenants of our debt agreements as of March 31, 2026. We have no long-term debt maturing until fiscal year 2031.

Previous wording

From time to time, we use interest rate swap agreements to manage our exposure to changes in interest rates. Currently, we have interest rate swap agreements that convert the variable benchmark SOFR rates on $310 million of our two outstanding term loans to fixed rates. With the swap agreements in place, the effective interest rates on $275 million of the five-year term loan and $345 million of the seven-year term loan were 5.96% and 6.16%, respectively, as of March 31, 2025. These agreements were entered into to eliminate the variability of cash flows in the interest payments on our variable rate five- and seven-year term loans and are accounted for as cash flow hedges. Under the swap agreements, we receive variable rate interest and pay fixed rate interest. At March 31, 2025, the fair value of our open interest rate hedge swaps was a net asset of approximately $2 million.

Current wording

From time to time, we use interest rate swap agreements to manage our exposure to changes in interest rates. Currently, we have interest rate swap agreements that convert the variable benchmark SOFR rates on $310 million of our two outstanding term loans to fixed rates. With the swap agreements in place, the effective interest rates on the $275 million five-year term loan and the $345 million seven-year term loan were 5.57% and 6.15%, respectively, as of March 31, 2026. These agreements were entered into to eliminate the variability of cash flows in the interest payments on our variable rate five- and seven-year term loans and are accounted for as cash flow hedges. Under the swap agreements, we receive variable rate interest and pay fixed rate interest. At March 31, 2026, the fair value of our open interest rate hedge swaps was a net asset of approximately $1 million.

Previous wording

We also enter derivative instruments from time to time to hedge certain foreign currency exposures, primarily related to forecasted purchases of tobacco, related processing costs, and crop input sales in Brazil, as well as our net monetary asset exposure in local currency there. We generally account for our hedges of forecasted tobacco purchases as cash flow hedges. At March 31, 2025, the fair value of those open contracts was a net liability of approximately $5.2 million. We also had other forward contracts outstanding that were not designated as hedges, and the fair value of those contracts was a net liability of approximately $1.1 million at March 31, 2025. For additional information, see Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8.

Current wording

We also enter derivative instruments from time to time to hedge certain foreign currency exposures, primarily related to forecasted purchases of tobacco, related processing costs, and crop input sales, as well as our net monetary asset exposure in local currency. We generally account for our hedges of forecasted tobacco purchases as cash flow hedges. At March 31, 2026, the fair value of those open contracts was a net liability of approximately $14 thousand. We also had other forward contracts outstanding that were not designated as hedges, and the fair value of those contracts was a net asset of approximately $0.2 million at March 31, 2026. For additional information, see Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8.

Previous wording

(1)Includes interest payments. Interest payments on $765 million of variable rate debt were estimated based on rates as of March 31, 2025. We have entered into interest rate swaps that effectively convert the interest payments on $310 million of the outstanding balance of our two bank term loans from variable to fixed. The fixed rate has been used to determine the contractual interest payments for all periods.

Current wording

(1)Includes interest payments. Interest payments on $598 million of variable rate debt were estimated based on rates as of March 31, 2026. We have entered into interest rate swaps that effectively convert the interest payments on $310 million of the outstanding balance of our two bank term loans from variable to fixed. The fixed rate has been used to determine the contractual interest payments for all periods.

Previous wording

In addition to principal and interest payments on notes payable and long-term debt, our contractual obligations include operating lease payments, inventory purchase commitments, and capital expenditure commitments. Operating lease obligations represent minimum payments due under leases for various production, storage, distribution, and other facilities, as well as vehicles and equipment. Tobacco inventory purchase obligations primarily represent contracts to purchase tobacco from farmers. The amounts shown above are estimates since actual quantities purchased will depend on crop yield, and prices will depend on the quality of the tobacco delivered. We have partially funded our tobacco purchases in some origins with short-term advances to farmers and other suppliers, which totaled approximately $171 million, net of allowances, at March 31, 2025.

Current wording

In addition to principal and interest payments on notes payable and long-term debt, our contractual obligations include operating lease payments, inventory purchase commitments, and capital expenditure commitments. Operating lease obligations represent minimum payments due under leases for various production, storage, distribution, and other facilities, as well as vehicles and equipment. Tobacco inventory purchase obligations primarily represent contracts to purchase tobacco from farmers. The amounts shown above are estimates since actual quantities purchased will depend on crop yield, and prices will depend on the quality of the tobacco delivered. We have partially funded our tobacco purchases in some origins with short-term advances to farmers and other suppliers, which totaled approximately $180 million, net of allowances, at March 31, 2026.

Previous wording

Inventories of tobacco are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value with cost determined under the specific cost method. Raw materials are clearly identified at the time of purchase. Other inventories consist primarily of unprocessed and processed food and vegetable ingredients, extracts, seed, fertilizer, packing materials, and other supplies. We track the costs associated with raw materials in the final product lots, and maintain this identification through the time of sale. We also capitalize direct and indirect costs related to processing raw materials. This method of cost accounting is referred to as the specific cost or specific identification method. We write down inventory for changes in net realizable value based upon assumptions related to future demand and market conditions if the indicated value is below cost. Future demand assumptions can be impacted by changes in customer sales, changes in customers’ inventory positions and policies, competitors’ pricing policies and inventory positions, and varying crop sizes and qualities. Market conditions that differ significantly from those assumed by management could result in additional write-downs. We experience inventory write-downs routinely. Inventory write-downs in fiscal years 2025, 2024, and 2023 were $19.9 million, $9.2 million, and $14.0 million, respectively.

Current wording

Inventories of tobacco are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value with cost determined under the specific cost method. Raw materials are clearly identified at the time of purchase. Other inventories consist primarily of unprocessed and processed food and vegetable ingredients, extracts, seed, fertilizer, packing materials, and other supplies. We track the costs associated with raw materials in the final product lots, and maintain this identification through the time of sale. We also capitalize direct and indirect costs related to processing raw materials. This method of cost accounting is referred to as the specific cost or specific identification method. We write down inventory for changes in net realizable value based upon assumptions related to future demand and market conditions if the indicated value is below cost. Future demand assumptions can be impacted by changes in customer sales, changes in customers’ inventory positions and policies, competitors’ pricing policies and inventory positions, and varying crop sizes and qualities. Market conditions that differ significantly from those assumed by management could result in additional write-downs. We experience inventory write-downs routinely. Inventory write-downs in fiscal years 2026, 2025, and 2024 were $52.0 million, $19.8 million, and $9.2 million, respectively.

Previous wording

In many sourcing origins, we provide tobacco growers with agronomy services and seasonal crop advances of, or for, seed, fertilizer, and other supplies. These advances are short term in nature and are customarily repaid upon delivery of tobacco to us. In several origins, we have also made long-term advances to tobacco farmers to finance curing barns and other farm infrastructure. In some years, due to low crop yields and other factors, individual farmers may not deliver sufficient volumes of tobacco to repay maturing advances. In those cases, we may extend repayment of the advances into the following crop year. We will incur losses whenever we are unable to recover the full amount of the loans and advances. At each reporting period, we must make estimates and assumptions in determining the valuation allowance for advances to farmers. At March 31, 2025, the gross balance of advances to tobacco suppliers totaled approximately $189 million, and the related valuation allowance totaled approximately $18 million.

Current wording

In many sourcing origins, we provide tobacco growers with agronomy services and seasonal crop advances of, or for, seed, fertilizer, and other supplies. These advances are short term in nature and are customarily repaid upon delivery of tobacco to us. In several origins, we have also made long-term advances to tobacco farmers to finance curing barns and other farm infrastructure. In some years, due to low crop yields and other factors, individual farmers may not deliver sufficient volumes of tobacco to repay maturing advances. In those cases, we may extend repayment of the advances into the following crop year. We will incur losses whenever we are unable to recover the full amount of the loans and advances. At each reporting period, we must make estimates and assumptions in determining the valuation allowance for advances to farmers. At March 31, 2026, the gross balance of advances to tobacco suppliers totaled approximately $196 million, and the related valuation allowance totaled approximately $16 million.

Previous wording

In many foreign countries, we pay significant amounts of value-added tax (“VAT”) on purchases of unprocessed and processed tobacco, crop inputs, packing materials, and various other goods and services. In some countries, VAT is a national tax, and in other countries it is assessed at the state level. Items subject to VAT vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, as do the rates at which the tax is assessed. When we sell tobacco to customers in the country of origin, we generally collect VAT on those sales. We are normally permitted to offset our VAT payments against those collections and remit only the incremental VAT collections to the tax authorities. When tobacco is sold for export, VAT is normally not assessed. In countries where our tobacco sales are predominantly for export markets, we often do not generate enough VAT collections on downstream sales to fully offset our VAT payments. In those situations, we can accumulate unused VAT credits. Some jurisdictions have procedures that allow companies to apply for refunds of unused VAT credits from the tax authorities, but the refund process often takes an extended period of time and it is not uncommon for refund applications to be challenged or rejected in part on technical grounds. Other jurisdictions may permit companies to sell or transfer unused VAT credits to third parties in private transactions, although approval for such transactions must normally be obtained from the tax authorities, limits on the amounts that can be transferred may be imposed, and the proceeds realized may be heavily discounted from the face value of the credits. Due to these factors, in some countries we can accumulate significant balances of VAT credits over time. We review these balances on a regular basis, and we record valuation allowances on the credits to reflect amounts that we do not expect to recover, as well as discounts anticipated on credits we expect to sell or transfer. In determining the appropriate valuation allowance to record in a given jurisdiction, we must make various estimates and assumptions about factors affecting the ultimate recovery of the VAT credits. At March 31, 2025, the gross balance of recoverable tax credits (primarily VAT) totaled approximately $64 million, and the related valuation allowance totaled approximately $21 million.

Current wording

In many foreign countries, we pay significant amounts of value-added tax (“VAT”) on purchases of unprocessed and processed tobacco, crop inputs, packing materials, and various other goods and services. In some countries, VAT is a national tax, and in other countries it is assessed at the state level. Items subject to VAT vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, as do the rates at which the tax is assessed. When we sell tobacco to customers in the country of origin, we generally collect VAT on those sales. We are normally permitted to offset our VAT payments against those collections and remit only the incremental VAT collections to the tax authorities. When tobacco is sold for export, VAT is normally not assessed. In countries where our tobacco sales are predominantly for export markets, we often do not generate enough VAT collections on downstream sales to fully offset our VAT payments. In those situations, we can accumulate unused VAT credits. Some jurisdictions have procedures that allow companies to apply for refunds of unused VAT credits from the tax authorities, but the refund process often takes an extended period of time and it is not uncommon for refund applications to be challenged or rejected in part on technical grounds. Other jurisdictions may permit companies to sell or transfer unused VAT credits to third parties in private transactions, although approval for such transactions must normally be obtained from the tax authorities, limits on the amounts that can be transferred may be imposed, and the proceeds realized may be heavily discounted from the face value of the credits. Due to these factors, in some countries we can accumulate significant balances of VAT credits over time. We review these balances on a regular basis, and we record valuation allowances on the credits to reflect amounts that we do not expect to recover, as well as discounts anticipated on credits we expect to sell or transfer. In determining the appropriate valuation allowance to record in a given jurisdiction, we must make various estimates and assumptions about factors affecting the ultimate recovery of the VAT credits. At March 31, 2026, the gross balance of recoverable tax credits (primarily VAT) totaled approximately $66 million, and the related valuation allowance totaled approximately $22 million.

Previous wording

A majority of our consolidated goodwill balance relates to our reporting unit in Brazil and the acquisitions of FruitSmart, Silva, and Universal Ingredients–Shank’s. We review the carrying value of goodwill for potential impairment on an annual basis and at any time that events or business conditions indicate that it may be impaired.

Current wording

A majority of our consolidated goodwill balance relates to our reporting unit in Brazil and the acquisitions of FruitSmart and Silva. We review the carrying value of goodwill for potential impairment on an annual basis and at any time that events or business conditions indicate that it may be impaired.

Previous wording

Accounting Standards Codification Topic 350 (“ASC 350”) permits companies to base initial assessments of potential goodwill impairment on qualitative factors, and the Company elected to use that approach at March 31, 2025. Those factors did not indicate that it was more likely than not that the fair value of any of the reporting units was less than their respective carrying value, therefore no potential impairment of the Company’s recorded goodwill was noted at March 31, 2025.

Current wording

Accounting Standards Codification Topic 350 (“ASC 350”) permits companies to base initial assessments of potential goodwill impairment on qualitative factors, and the Company elected to use that approach at March 31, 2026 for all entities with allocated goodwill with the exception of Universal Ingredients–Shank’s. For all entities, except Universal Ingredients–Shank’s, those factors did not indicate that it was more likely than not that the fair value of any of the reporting units was less than their respective carrying value, therefore no potential impairment of the Company’s recorded goodwill was noted at March 31, 2026. The Company elected to use the qualitative approach at March 31, 2025 for all entities. Those factors did not indicate that it was more likely than not that the fair value of any of the reporting units was less than their respective carrying value, therefore no potential impairment of the Company’s recorded goodwill was noted at March 31, 2025.

Previous wording

ASC 350 also allows companies to bypass the qualitative assessment and perform a quantitative assessment. The quantitative goodwill assessment consists of comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to the carrying value of that reporting unit. In the event that the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment of the reporting unit’s goodwill is recognized, up to the amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The Company elected to bypass the qualitative assessment and perform a quantitative assessment of goodwill impairment at March 31, 2024. The quantitative goodwill assessment consists of comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to the carrying value of that reporting unit. In the event that the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment of the reporting unit’s goodwill is recognized, up to the amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Fair value was assessed using a discounted cash flow model, comprised of estimates of future cash flows and discount rates. Based on this quantitative assessment, the Company determined there was no impairment of goodwill for any of its reporting units as of March 31, 2024.

Current wording

The goodwill associated with Universal Ingredients–Shank’s was tested utilizing a quantitative approach at March 31, 2026. The quantitative approach was utilized because management determined it was more likely than not that the carrying value exceeded the fair value of the reporting unit based on management's lower internal profitability projections in future years due primarily to the impacts of persistent adverse market conditions for certain new and existing product offerings. ASC 350 allows companies to bypass the qualitative assessment and perform a quantitative assessment. The quantitative goodwill assessment consists of comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to the carrying value of that reporting unit. In the event that the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment of the reporting unit's goodwill is recognized, up to the amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The fair value of Universal Ingredients–Shank’s at March 31, 2026 was assessed using a combination of a discounted cash flow model, comprised of estimates of future net cash flows and discount rates, as well as a market-based approach that considered a subset of peer companies. Based on this quantitative assessment, the Company determined the carrying value of Universal Ingredients–Shank’s at March 31, 2026 exceeded the derived fair value and recognized a $41.1 million non-cash goodwill impairment charge for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026

Previous wording

Leaf tobacco is sourced directly by product manufacturers, by global leaf suppliers such as ourselves, and by other smaller, mostly regional or local, leaf suppliers. We estimate that, of the flue-cured and burley tobacco grown outside of China in countries that are key export markets for tobacco, on average about a third is purchased directly by major manufacturers. Global leaf suppliers also usually purchase about a third of the tobacco, and the remainder is sourced by the smaller regional or local suppliers. In some markets the tobacco purchased directly by manufacturers is processed by the global leaf suppliers. Although we operate in a mature industry, we are committed to maintaining our strong position as the leading global leaf tobacco supplier. In recent years, we have been and believe that we will continue to be able to grow parts of our business and maintain performance despite declines in demand for leaf tobacco from product manufacturers. We have done this by continuing to increase our delivery of services, driving supply chain efficiencies, enhancing the range of services we provide to certain customers, including direct buying, agronomic support, and specialized processing services, and improving our market share. We intend to continue to work to expand our business while at the same time maintaining an appropriate return for the services we provide and believe that there are several longer-term trends in the industry, such as a focus on sustainability, that could provide additional opportunities for us both to offer additional services to our customers and to increase our market share.

Current wording

Leaf tobacco is sourced directly by product manufacturers, by global leaf suppliers such as ourselves, and by other smaller, mostly regional or local, leaf suppliers. We estimate that, of the flue-cured and burley tobacco grown outside of China in countries that are key export markets for tobacco, historically on average about a third is purchased directly by major manufacturers. Global leaf suppliers also usually purchase about a third of the tobacco, and the remainder is sourced by the smaller regional or local suppliers. In some markets the tobacco purchased directly by manufacturers is processed by the global leaf suppliers. Although we operate in a mature industry, we are committed to maintaining our strong position as the leading global leaf tobacco supplier. In recent years, we have been and believe that we will continue to be able to grow parts of our business and maintain performance despite declines in demand for leaf tobacco from product manufacturers. We have done this by continuing to increase our delivery of services, driving supply chain efficiencies, enhancing the range of services we provide to certain customers, including direct buying, agronomic support, and specialized processing services, and improving our market share. We intend to continue to work to expand our business while at the same time maintaining an appropriate return for the services we provide and believe that there are several longer-term trends in the industry, such as a focus on sustainability, that could provide additional opportunities for us both to offer additional services to our customers and to increase our market share.

Previous wording

We have also seen some reductions in sourcing from lower-volume tobacco growing origins by both global leaf suppliers and major manufacturers. Flue-cured tobacco is produced in about 65 countries around the world, and burley tobacco is grown in about 45 countries. However, over 80% of both the flue-cured tobacco grown outside of China and the worldwide burley tobacco production is sourced from the top 10 growing areas for each type of tobacco. We believe that these moves to reduce sourcing areas and concentrate on major tobacco export markets are another way for the industry to increase efficiency and to reduce costs. We have contributed to cost reduction and elimination of excess capacity in the supply chain through the closure or realignment of programs in Argentina, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Malawi, Nicaragua, Switzerland, Tanzania, and Zambia. We maintain a strong presence in all of the major tobacco sourcing areas and believe that any growth in these areas would favor global leaf suppliers such as ourselves. In the future, we expect that increased regulations requiring stringent monitoring and testing of leaf chemistry and compliant sourcing documentation will continue to place greater emphasis on major sourcing areas.

Current wording

We have also seen some reductions in sourcing from lower-volume tobacco growing origins by both global leaf suppliers and major manufacturers. Flue-cured tobacco is produced in about 64 countries around the world, and burley tobacco is grown in about 49 countries. However, over 85% of both the flue-cured tobacco grown outside of China and the worldwide burley tobacco production is sourced from the top 10 growing areas for each type of tobacco. We believe that these moves to reduce sourcing areas and concentrate on major tobacco export markets are another way for the industry to increase efficiency and to reduce costs. We have contributed to cost reduction and elimination of excess capacity in the supply chain through the closure or realignment of programs in Argentina, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Malawi, Nicaragua, Switzerland, Tanzania, and Zambia. We maintain a strong presence in all of the major tobacco sourcing areas and believe that any growth in these areas would favor global leaf suppliers such as ourselves. In the future, we expect that increased regulations requiring stringent monitoring and testing of leaf chemistry and compliant sourcing documentation will continue to place greater emphasis on major sourcing areas.

Previous wording

As we have said for many years, the production of compliant leaf for the tobacco industry continues to grow in importance. To be considered compliant, leaf tobacco must be grown in a traceable, sustainable manner utilizing GAP as well as adhering to ALP principals and monitored for environmental and social impacts. We have long invested significant resources in the programs and infrastructure needed to work with growers to produce compliant leaf and continue to enhance our ability to monitor and demonstrate this compliance for our customers. Our GAP and ALP programs focus on implementing international principles of sustainability by encouraging and training our farmers to employ sound field production and labor management practices that promote farmer profitability and minimal environmental impact. To assist farmers, Universal provides comprehensive training, technical support in the field, and crop analytics through ongoing research and development. Our commitment to compliance is reinforced through MobiLeaf™, our proprietary mobile device platform that captures and shares data in real-time, embedding sustainability throughout our supply chain and providing monitoring of GAP and ALP efforts, compliance with labor standards, and opportunities to enhance efficiencies. We believe that compliant leaf will continue to grow in importance to our customers and, as a result, will favor global suppliers who are able to deliver this product.

Current wording

As we have said for many years, the production of compliant leaf for the tobacco industry continues to grow in importance. To be considered compliant, leaf tobacco must be grown in a traceable, sustainable manner utilizing GAP as well as adhering to ALP principals and monitored for environmental and social impacts. We have long invested significant resources in the programs and infrastructure needed to work with growers to produce compliant leaf and continue to enhance our ability to monitor and demonstrate this compliance for our customers. Our GAP and ALP programs focus on implementing international principles of sustainability by encouraging and training our farmers to employ sound field production and labor management practices that promote farmer profitability and minimal environmental impact. To assist farmers, Universal provides comprehensive training, technical support in the field, and crop analytics through ongoing research and development. Our commitment to compliance is reinforced through MobiLeaf TM, our proprietary mobile device platform that captures and shares data in real-time, embedding sustainability throughout our supply chain and providing monitoring of GAP and ALP efforts, compliance with labor standards, and opportunities to enhance efficiencies. We believe that compliant leaf will continue to grow in importance to our customers and, as a result, will favor global suppliers who are able to deliver this product.

Previous wording

Flue-cured tobacco crops grown outside of China decreased in fiscal year 2025 by about 5% to 1.8 billion kilos, compared to fiscal year 2024. Global burley tobacco production at about 469 million kilos in fiscal year 2025, increased by about 6% compared to the burley crops grown in our fiscal year 2024. We estimate that as of March 31, 2025, industry uncommitted flue-cured and burley inventories, excluding China, continued to be at low levels, and flue-cured and burley tobaccos were in undersupply positions. Flue-cured tobacco production grown outside of China is projected to increase by about 20%, and the global burley tobacco crop is projected to increase by about 35% in fiscal year 2026. If these anticipated increases in flue-cured and burley crop production are realized, we believe that both flue-cured and burley tobaccos will move to a balanced, or possibly slight oversupply position.

Current wording

Flue-cured tobacco crops grown outside of China increased in fiscal year 2026 by about 28% to 2.4 billion kilos, compared to fiscal year 2025. Global burley tobacco production at about 722 million kilos in fiscal year 2026, increased by about 54% compared to the burley crops grown in our fiscal year 2025. We estimate that as of March 31, 2026, industry uncommitted flue-cured and burley inventories, excluding China, totaled about 169 million kilos, compared to about 22 million kilos at March 31, 2025. We believe flue-cured and burley tobaccos were in oversupply positions as of March 31, 2026. Flue-cured tobacco production grown outside of China is projected to decrease by about 3%, and the global burley tobacco crop is projected to decrease by about 16% in fiscal year 2027. Even if these anticipated decreases in flue-cured and burley crop production are realized, we believe that both flue-cured and burley tobaccos will remain in oversupply positions.

Previous wording

We also forecast that oriental tobacco production will increase by about 9% and dark air-cured tobacco production will increase by about 6% in fiscal year 2026. As of the date of the Annual Report, we believe oriental tobaccos are currently in an undersupply position but moving towards a more balanced position, and dark air-cured tobaccos are in a slight oversupply position. Over the long term, we believe that global tobacco production will continue to move in line with slowly declining total demand. Africa, Asia, North America, and South America will remain key sourcing regions for flue-cured and burley tobaccos.

Current wording

We also forecast that oriental tobacco production will increase by about 21% and dark air-cured tobacco production will increase by about 2% in fiscal year 2027. As of the date of the Annual Report, we believe oriental tobaccos are currently in an undersupply position but moving towards a more balanced position, and dark air-cured tobaccos are in an oversupply position. Over the long term, we believe that global tobacco production will continue to move in line with slowly declining total demand. Africa, Asia, North America, and South America will remain key sourcing regions for flue-cured and burley tobaccos.

Previous wording

Industry data from the Nicotine Resource Consortium shows that over the five years ended in 2023, world consumption of cigarettes outside of China declined at a compound annual rate of just over 1%, and consumption of American-blend cigarettes declined at a compound annual rate of about 2%. We expect that near term global demand for leaf tobacco will slowly decline in line with global cigarette consumption.

Current wording

Industry data from the Nicotine Resource Consortium shows that over the five years ended in 2024, world consumption of cigarettes outside of China declined at a compound annual rate of almost 2%. We expect that near-term global demand for leaf tobacco will slowly decline in line with global cigarette consumption.

Previous wording

Our sales consist primarily of flue-cured, burley, and dark air-cured tobaccos. Flue-cured and burley tobaccos, along with oriental tobaccos, are used in American-blend cigarettes, which are primarily smoked in Western Europe and the United States. English-blend cigarettes, which use flue-cured tobacco, are mainly smoked in the United Kingdom and Asia and other emerging markets. Industry data shows that consumption of American-blend cigarettes was declining for the five years ended in 2023. If demand for American-blend cigarettes declines at a higher rate than reductions in demand for English-blend cigarettes, there may be less demand for burley and oriental tobaccos and more demand for flue-cured tobacco. However, demand is affected by many factors, including regulation, product taxation, illicit trade, alternative tobacco products, and Chinese imports. To the extent that domestic leaf production and inventory durations in China do not meet requirements for Chinese cigarette blends, that tobacco could be sourced from other origins where we have major market positions. On a year-to-year basis, we are also susceptible to fluctuations in leaf supply due to crop sizes and leaf demand as manufacturers adjust inventories or respond to changes in cigarette markets. We currently believe that the supply of flue-cured tobaccos and burley tobaccos are in an undersupply position relative to anticipated demand. However, inventories held by our customers may affect their near-term demand for leaf tobacco. We also sell oriental tobaccos, which are used in American-blend cigarettes, and dark tobaccos, which are used in cigars and other smokeless products. In recent years, we have seen increased demand for natural wrapper tobacco particularly for the European and U.S. machine-made cigar markets. While we expect demand for dark tobaccos used in cigar filler to be generally in line with supply, we are continuing to see strong demand for wrapper tobacco.

Current wording

Our sales consist primarily of flue-cured, burley, and dark air-cured tobaccos. Flue-cured and burley tobaccos, along with oriental tobaccos, are used in American-blend cigarettes, which are primarily smoked in Western Europe and the United States. English-blend cigarettes, which use flue-cured tobacco, are mainly smoked in the United Kingdom and Asia and other emerging markets. If demand for American-blend cigarettes declines at a higher rate than reductions in demand for English-blend cigarettes, there may be less demand for burley and oriental tobaccos and more demand for flue-cured tobacco. However, demand is affected by many factors, including regulation, product taxation, illicit trade, alternative tobacco products, and Chinese imports. To the extent that domestic leaf production and inventory durations in China do not meet requirements for Chinese cigarette blends, that tobacco could be sourced from other origins where we have major market positions. On a year-to-year basis, we are also susceptible to fluctuations in leaf supply due to crop sizes and leaf demand as manufacturers adjust inventories or respond to changes in cigarette markets. We currently believe that the supply of flue-cured tobaccos and burley tobaccos are in an oversupply position relative to anticipated demand. Inventories held by our customers can also affect their near-term demand for leaf tobacco. We also sell oriental tobaccos, which are used in American-blend cigarettes, and dark tobaccos, which are used in cigars and other smokeless products.

Previous wording

Factors that affect green tobacco prices include global supply and demand, market conditions, production costs, foreign exchange rates, and competition from other crops, among others. We work with farmers to maintain tobacco production and to secure product at price levels that are attractive to both the farmers and our customers. Our objective is to secure compliant tobacco that is produced in a cost-effective manner under a sustainable business model with the desired quality for our customers. In some areas, tobacco competes with agricultural commodity products for farmer production. In the past, leaf shortages in specific markets or on a worldwide basis have also led to green tobacco price increases.

Current wording

Factors that affect green tobacco prices include global supply and demand, market conditions, production costs, foreign exchange rates, and competition from other crops, among others. We work with farmers to maintain tobacco production and to secure product at price levels that are attractive to both the farmers and our customers. Our objective is to secure compliant tobacco that is produced in a cost-effective manner under a sustainable business model with the desired quality for our customers. In some areas, tobacco competes with agricultural commodity products for farmer production.

Previous wording

The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (“FCTC”) was ratified in 2005 to become the world’s first international public health treaty. Since its inception, the FCTC has continued to strengthen international cooperation and collaboration in tobacco control by advancing the implementation of the treaty’s 38 articles and increasing global participation. At the tenth Conference of the Parties held in February 2024, the FCTC considered amendments to the agreement and track progress in the treaty’s implementation, particularly as it relates to environmental impacts and novel/emerging products. The eleventh Conference of the Parties is scheduled for November 2025.

Current wording

The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (“FCTC”) was ratified in 2005 to become the world’s first international public health treaty. Since its inception, the FCTC has continued to strengthen international cooperation and collaboration in tobacco control by advancing the implementation of the treaty’s 38 articles and increasing global participation. At the eleventh Conference of the Parties held in November 2025, the FCTC considered amendments to the agreement and tracked progress in the treaty’s implementation, particularly as it relates to novel/emerging products. The twelfth Conference of the Parties is scheduled for November 2027.

Previous wording

Since the enactment of the Tobacco Act, the FDA has focused on establishing the scientific foundation and regulatory framework for regulating tobacco products in the United States. On May 10, 2016, the FDA released “deeming” regulations to extend FDA oversight over all tobacco products, including electronic nicotine delivery systems, cigars, hookah tobacco, pipe tobacco, dissolvables, and “novel and future products.” Additionally, the U.S. Congress extended the FDA’s authority to include regulation of tobacco products using synthetically manufactured nicotine in addition to naturally derived nicotine in March 2022. The regulations require tobacco product manufacturers to register tobacco products that were on the market on February 15, 2007, and to seek FDA authorization to sell any products modified or introduced after such date. All submissions require manufacturers to list ingredients in their products. In January 2025, the FDA released a proposed rule to lower nicotine levels in cigarettes and certain combusted tobacco products to minimally or nonaddictive levels. This tobacco product standard would likely impact future leaf demand if adopted. It is also expected that should this ban be adopted, it would be challenged in the legal system making it difficult to predict when and if this proposed rule would become effective.

Current wording

Since the enactment of the Tobacco Act, the FDA has focused on establishing the scientific foundation and regulatory framework for regulating tobacco products in the United States. On May 10, 2016, the FDA released “deeming” regulations to extend FDA oversight over all tobacco products, including electronic nicotine delivery systems, cigars, hookah tobacco, pipe tobacco, dissolvables, and “novel and future products.” Additionally, the U.S. Congress extended the FDA’s authority to include regulation of tobacco products using synthetically manufactured nicotine in addition to naturally derived nicotine in March 2022. The regulations require tobacco product manufacturers to register tobacco products that were on the market on February 15, 2007, and to seek FDA authorization to sell any products modified or introduced after such date. All submissions require manufacturers to list ingredients in their products.

Previous wording

As novel tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and heat-not-burn devices, emerge in the global market, governments are tasked with developing the appropriate, science-driven approach to regulation. In 2017, the FDA announced a new regulatory approach for the regulation of tobacco products that embraced the placement of each product somewhere along a “continuum of risk”. This comprehensive plan on nicotine use sought to facilitate an adult tobacco consumer’s switch from combustible cigarettes to less risky products found lower on the continuum. As part of this regulatory scheme, the FDA approved the first “heat-not-burn”, “very-low nicotine cigarette”, “electronic nicotine delivery system”, and “nicotine pouch” premarket tobacco applications to permit the sale of these products within the United States. Furthermore, the FDA approved modified risk tobacco products applications to permit certain products in the heat-not-burn and smokeless categories to make modified exposure or risk claims. Although the WHO FCTC has not embraced the harm-reduction language in the treaty, a growing number of countries have established tobacco control strategies incorporating a continuum of risk concept. In addition, the global tobacco product market is continuously diversifying to include a wide array of novel tobacco products to serve as alternatives to combustible cigarettes.

Current wording

As demand for novel tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes, heat-not-burn devices, and nicotine pouches strengthens in the global market, governments are tasked with developing the appropriate, science-driven approach to regulation. In 2017, the FDA announced a new regulatory approach for the regulation of tobacco products that embraced the placement of each product somewhere along a “continuum of risk”. This comprehensive plan on nicotine use sought to facilitate an adult tobacco consumer’s switch from combustible cigarettes to less risky products found lower on the continuum. As part of this regulatory scheme, the FDA approved the first “heat-not-burn”, “very-low nicotine cigarette”, “electronic nicotine delivery system”, “flavored e-cigarette product”, and “nicotine pouch” premarket tobacco applications to permit the sale of these products within the United States. Furthermore, the FDA approved modified risk tobacco products applications to permit certain products in the heat-not-burn and smokeless categories to make modified exposure or risk claims. Although the WHO FCTC has not endorsed the practical application of the harm-reduction language in the treaty, a growing number of countries have established tobacco control strategies incorporating a continuum of risk concept. In addition, the global tobacco product market is continuously diversifying to include a wide array of novel tobacco products to serve as alternatives to combustible cigarettes.

Previous wording

A number of governments, particularly federal and local governments in the United States and the European Union, impose excise or similar taxes on tobacco products. Further legislation proposing new or increased taxes on tobacco products is likely to continue. In some cases, proposed legislation seeks to significantly increase existing taxes on tobacco products or impose new taxes on products that have not been subject to tax (e.g., ENDS products and liquid nicotine). Increases in product taxation could reduce the affordability of, and demand for, tobacco products, which will affect requirements for leaf tobacco by tobacco product manufacturers.

Current wording

A number of governments, particularly federal and local governments in the United States and the European Union, impose excise or similar taxes on tobacco products. Further legislation proposing new or increased taxes on tobacco products is likely to continue. In some cases, proposed legislation seeks to significantly increase existing taxes on tobacco products or impose new taxes on products that have not been subject to tax (e.g., ENDS products and liquid nicotine). Increases in product taxation could reduce the affordability of, and demand for, tobacco products, which will affect leaf tobacco requirements by tobacco product manufacturers.

Previous wording

Illicit trade is another factor that influences demand for legally and sustainably produced leaf tobacco. The WHO estimates that one in every 10 cigarettes consumed globally is illicit. Individual governments like the United States, European Union, and Brazil have initiated substantial steps in combating illicit trade. In 2012, the WHO FCTC adopted an illicit trade protocol that, to date, has been ratified by only 68 parties. We continue to support both governmental and industry efforts to eradicate illicit trade.

Current wording

Illicit trade is another factor that influences demand for legally and sustainably produced leaf tobacco. The WHO estimates that one in every 10 cigarettes consumed globally is illicit. Individual governments including the United States, European Union, and Brazil have initiated substantial steps in combating illicit trade. In 2012, the WHO FCTC adopted an illicit trade protocol that, to date, has been ratified by only 68 parties. We continue to support both governmental and industry efforts to eradicate illicit trade.

Previous wording

As we continue to grow Universal Ingredients, we intend to explore and develop targeted opportunities to vertically integrate certain plant-based ingredients from our tobacco growing areas to capitalize on our strengths and capabilities there. We have established grower networks and agricultural support infrastructure in origins where we source tobacco, and we also have strong, mature sustainability programs in those origins. We believe that ingredients produced in a sustainable manner will grow in importance to our customers and, as a result, will favor suppliers who are able to deliver these products.

Current wording

As we continue to grow Universal Ingredients, we intend in the future to explore the benefits and opportunities to vertically integrate certain plant-based ingredients from our tobacco growing areas to capitalize on our strengths and capabilities there. We have established grower networks and agricultural support infrastructure in origins where we source tobacco, and we also have strong, mature sustainability programs in those origins. We believe that ingredients produced in a sustainable manner will grow in importance to our customers and, as a result, will favor suppliers who are able to deliver these products.