Italian Authorities Investigate Misleading Ads by BAT and Amazon

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.