The name comes from the “pop” sound it makes when it cracks open.
 The sweet aroma of cloves and the cooling sensation of menthol

Intercontinental Trading Corp. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Hadi Suryo), which imports and sells foreign cigarettes, will begin selling the “L.A. Menthol” kretek cigarettes, manufactured by PT Djarum, at tobacco retailers nationwide starting Monday, November 16, 2026.

■ What are Kretek cigarettes?

 It is said that kretek cigarettes originated in the early 1880s, when cloves—which were used as a pain reliever to alleviate asthma symptoms—were mixed with tobacco leaves and sold in pharmacies.

 The blended cloves sometimes react and produce a “pop” sound. The term “Kretek” derives from the sound “Kretek-krerek” made when the cloves burn.

 ■Secret Sauce

 To highlight Kretek's rich, authentic aroma, the sauce is made primarily from Indonesian ingredients such as cinnamon, jackfruit, and vanilla. It also uses herbs and a variety of spices. With every puff, the sweet scent of cloves and tropical flavors gently fills the air.

  ■New Product Overview

 Product Name: L.A. Menthol

 Taste: The subtle sweetness of cloves, combined with a gentle fruitiness and

 a natural cooling sensation. A smooth kretek menthol.

 Tar: 16 mg

 Nicotine: 0.8 mg

 Price & Quantity: 500 yen (tax included), 16 sticks

 Country of Manufacture: Indonesia

 ■Our 5 existing items are also selling well!

■About PT Djarum

 PT Djarum is Indonesia’s second-largest kretek tobacco company, widely recognized both domestically and internationally, and was founded in Kudus—considered the birthplace of kretek cigarettes. The company launched hand-rolled kretek cigarettes in 1972 and has since succeeded in developing low-tar kretek cigarettes, further cementing its reputation among tobacco enthusiasts worldwide.

Intercontinental Trading Corp. will continue to strive to provide products that meet the diverse needs of our customers.

<Inquiries>

Intercontinental Trading Corp, Cigar & Cigarette Division

TEL: 0120-09-6711