Tobacco firm's report to trading standards officers sparks 'vape war'

22 April 2023 , 18:44

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The ELFBAR 600 vape at the centre of the row (Image: handout)

One of the world’s biggest tobacco firms has been ­accused of starting a vape war by reporting a smaller rival to Trading Standards officers.

British American Tobacco acted after China’s Elfbar sold vapes with more nicotine liquid than permitted.

Elfbar removed the products from shelves in February after allegations in a Daily Mail story.

The firm met the regulator and said it would be working with Trading Standards to ensure the withdrawal was carried out effectively.

Weeks later, BAT claimed its own tests on Elfbar 600 and Lost Mary vapes found 71 batches that broke rules.

They look and taste like sweets - no wonder underage vaping is sweeping Britain

Anti-smoking groups have accused BAT of starting a 'vape war' (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

BAT chief Sam Millicheap wrote to Trading Standards: “I hope you find this information useful for any enforcement action.”

But a Trading Standards officer told us they took no action, adding: “The real problems are illegal products.”

Elfbar claims BAT’s complaint came after it snubbed a takeover bid.

An ELFBAR 600 vape (handout)

Anti-smoking group Ash accused BAT of staring a “vape war” and criticised it for contacting Trading Standards officers.

Elfbar said: “We have been working to assure future compliance.”

BAT said: “We believe manufacturers should ensure that their products adhere to ­applicable laws.”

Jeanette Oldham