KT&G has introduced its flagship global cigarette brand ESSE at duty-free shops in Istanbul Airport, extending its presence in Türkiye's travel retail market. The company said ESSE, which accounts for one-third of global super-slim cigarette sales and is sold in more than 90 countries, generated about $770 million in global sales last year, surpassing KRW 1 trillion annually. The Istanbul Airport lineup includes ESSE Blue, ESSE Change 4mg, ESSE Himalaya, ESSE Double Shot and ESSE Change Double Orange. The expansion builds on KT&G's June entry into Turkish duty-free retail through Antalya Airport and fits its broader strategy of growing across major global airports and duty-free channels. Istanbul Airport handled about 84 million visitors last year, making it a significant gateway for international travelers across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.