Italian Authorities Investigate Misleading Ads by BAT and Amazon

Apr.18.2023
Italian Authorities Investigate Misleading Ads by BAT and Amazon
Italian authorities investigate misleading ads for BAT's glo hyper X2 on Amazon for potential health risks.

On April 18th, according to a report by Market Watch, the Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) launched an investigation into British American Tobacco (BAT) and Amazon, citing claims that the two companies have been providing misleading information in their advertising for new heated tobacco devices.


The Italian competition watchdog announced that the advertising campaign for the glo hyper X2 product, owned by British American Tobacco, inaccurately suggested that the product is nicotine-free. The advertisement was disseminated on Amazon, and could potentially pose health risks to some consumers, particularly minors.


Currently, neither British American Tobacco nor Amazon have responded to the issue.


Further reading:


British American Tobacco responds to 2FIRSTS: Testing of disposable e-cigarettes in the UK is a valid concern.


British and American tobacco companies are suspected of initiating an anti-ban movement against electronic cigarettes in Australia. The related videos have been removed.


The IBVTA says that any harm reduction claims made by BAT should be questioned.


Legal Expert Op-Ed: BAT Cannot Serve as Enforcement Police for E-Cigarettes


BAT has launched a pop-up store called "Glo studio" in South Korea to kick off a new product experience event.


References:


Amazon and British American Tobacco are under investigation in Italy for their promotion of heated tobacco devices through advertising.


This document has been generated through artificial intelligence translation and is provided solely for the purposes of industry discourse and learning. Please note that the intellectual property rights of the content belong to the original media source or author. Owing to certain limitations in the translation process, there may be discrepancies between the translated text and the original content. We recommend referring to the original source for complete accuracy. In case of any inaccuracies, we invite you to reach out to us with corrections. If you believe any content has infringed upon your rights, please contact us immediately for its removal.

South Dakota Legislature Approves Two Nicotine Licensing Bills Pending Governor’s Decision
South Dakota Legislature Approves Two Nicotine Licensing Bills Pending Governor’s Decision
The South Dakota Legislature gave final approval on Tuesday to two proposals requiring state licenses for businesses that sell nicotine products. Under the bills, wholesalers, distributors and retailers of nicotine products in the state would need to be licensed by the government.
Mar.12 by 2FIRSTS.ai
France’s HAS to Address Role of E-Cigarettes in Updated Smoking-Cessation Guidelines, Tells 2Firsts
France’s HAS to Address Role of E-Cigarettes in Updated Smoking-Cessation Guidelines, Tells 2Firsts
2Firsts has learned that France’s national health authority, the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS), confirmed the role of e-cigarettes will be addressed in updated national smoking-cessation guidelines expected by the end of 2026. HAS said the recommendations will focus on clinical and public-health considerations, will not set technical standards for vaping products, and that current studies are insufficient to clearly assess risks and benefits across different product categories.
Mar.10
New Nicotine Products Added to Tax List in Delaware Budget Proposal
New Nicotine Products Added to Tax List in Delaware Budget Proposal
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer’s proposed FY2027 budget would significantly raise cigarette and nicotine product taxes to help close a $500 million budget gap and generate new revenue. The cigarette tax would rise from $2.10 to $3.60 per pack, with increases on moist snuff, e-liquids and other tobacco products. Supporters say the move is justified, while small businesses warn of potential sales losses.
Feb.17
Indonesia’s vape retailers adopt 21+ signage and ID verification requirements, report says
Indonesia’s vape retailers adopt 21+ signage and ID verification requirements, report says
RetailNews Asia reported that the Association of Indonesian Vape Retailers (Arvindo) has directed member stores to stop selling e-cigarettes to people under 21 and to display 21+ signage and verify customer age using valid identification.
Feb.27
Florida HB 389 seeks statewide ban on smoking and vaping in public places and indoor workplaces
Florida HB 389 seeks statewide ban on smoking and vaping in public places and indoor workplaces
Florida lawmakers have introduced HB 389, a proposal to expand smoke-free protections by banning smoking and vaping in public places and enclosed indoor workplaces across the state. The bill broadens statutory definitions and outlines limited exceptions and compliance rules, with an effective date of July 1, 2026 if enacted.
Feb.10 by 2FIRSTS.ai
BAT Japan to launch two new VELO nicotine pouch flavours in February
BAT Japan to launch two new VELO nicotine pouch flavours in February
BAT Japan will roll out two new VELO nicotine pouch variants from Feb. 2, 2026: Smooth Peppermint Medium and Breezy Mango Intense. The products will be sold via the official glo & VELO online store, the glo Store Ginza and nationwide tobacco retail channels in Japan.
Jan.23 by 2FIRSTS.ai