BAT

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has terminated Investigation 337-TA-1410 after invalidating key vape patent claims asserted by R.J. Reynolds Vapor Company, removing the immediate risk of import bans for dozens of companies. However, a new case—337-TA-1486—has already opened a more consequential legal front, shifting the focus from patent disputes to regulatory compliance across the vape supply chain, including PACT Act reporting, tax compliance, and FDA marketing authorization.

The EPO Technical Board of Appeal 3.2.02 (T 1319/24) revoked VMR Products LLC’s EP3613453 “VAPORIZER” patent after finding that a 2012 YouTube video of the Innokin iTaste VV (D3) disclosed the claimed electrical contact arrangement. Opponents Nicoventures Trading Ltd (BAT subsidiary) and Philip Morris Products S.A. prevailed.

The payoff is here: BAT’s Vuse has seized a rare regulatory vacuum to reverse its U.S. slide, capitalizing on a crackdown that seemingly compressed the illicit market to 54%. But the victory is fragile. A record $590 million export shock in October signals the gray market is striking back—pitting a fleeting compliance dividend against a massive inventory wall.

BAT announces annual financial results with revenue of 258.67 billion pounds, down 5.2% from last year, driven by new product categories.

British American Tobacco Korea expands sales of "VUSE Go Slim 2ml" e-cigarette in Seoul, Incheon, and Busan, aiming to boost market share.

BATBC plans to invest 2.838 billion Taka to boost cigarette production capacity, satisfying growing demand, Financial Express reported.

BAT's VUSE announces new e-cigarette series to strengthen market influence, including "VUSE GO BOX 6ml" and "VUSE GO SLIM 2ml.

British American Tobacco (BAT) plans to launch VELO Plus in the US by the end of 2024.