Philip Morris v. Uruguay

The Philip Morris v. Uruguay case involved the tobacco company Philip Morris challenging Uruguay’s anti-smoking laws, which included graphic health warnings and restrictions on cigarette packaging. Philip Morris argued these rules violated its investment protections under international trade agreements, claiming they unfairly harmed its profits. However, a tribunal largely sided with Uruguay, stating that the government’s health measures were legitimate public health efforts and did not breach investment rights. The case underscored the tension between protecting public health and safeguarding multinational companies’ rights in international investment law.