BAT Halts Vuse One Vape Launch Amid FDA Crackdown
British American Tobacco pauses the U.S. launch of its unlicensed Vuse One vape due to increased FDA scrutiny on unregulated products. The move highlights competitive challenges for the tobacco industry, particularly from Chinese imports. Philip Morris signals cautious approaches in response to regulatory pressures.
British American Tobacco (BAT) has put the brakes on launching its Vuse One vape in the United States. The decision comes as the Food and Drug Administration intensifies its crackdown on unlicensed vape products, many of which flood in from China, complicating the competitive landscape for big tobacco in a lucrative market.
The move by BAT, which also produces Lucky Strike cigarettes, illustrates the significant hurdles traditional tobacco firms face. Philip Morris International has echoed similar sentiments, showing wariness in launching unlicensed products amid a tightening regulatory environment. Industry giants have long lobbied for reforms to expedite FDA approvals for new nicotine alternatives.
Despite increased scrutiny, some firms like Altria continue to test unlicensed products, navigating a challenging regulatory framework. The FDA maintains its stance against unlawful sales and stresses rigorous evaluation, sparking debate among health advocacy groups about efficacy and safety oversight.