ICYMI: “Chinese Vapor Products Are Leaving American Businesses Holding the Bag”

A must-read piece from The Floridian highlights recent efforts by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. to crack down on the illicit Chinese nicotine product market. Earlier this month, Reynolds urged the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to investigate alleged unlawful practices by the Chinese-based Heaven Gifts International—the parent company of brands like Elf Bar and Geek Bar— that designs, manufactures, and distributes electronic cigarettes across the globe.

None of the products from Heaven Gifts International have received authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), yet are widely available in U.S. store shelves.

As The Floridian article notes:

Specifically, RJ Reynolds has accused the conglomerate of selling flavored vapes in areas where the products are banned, not being on any state directory, and evading state and local excise taxes. Not only do these illicit practices undermine domestic competition, but they also put them at risk of having products seized and stores shut down, tainting the image of the vape industry. After all, U.S.-based manufacturers operating in FDA-approved facilities should not be conflated with these illegal foreign actors, as American companies ensure compliance with all FDA regulations.

Read the entire article HERE.

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