London-Based Tobacco Giant, BAT, Advocates for Stricter Regulations on Vaping, Proposing Licensing Similar to Alcohol and Cigarettes
British American Tobacco (BAT) has called for more rigorous regulations on vaping, proposing the implementation of a licensing system akin to alcohol and cigarettes. The company, currently the third-largest seller of vapes in the UK, emphasizes the need for a ban on flavors explicitly targeting children.
The UK government is already considering new regulations due to concerns about the rising number of young people engaging in vaping. Legislation is promised following an ongoing public consultation.
BAT, known for brands like Rothmans and Lucky Strike, is a prominent player in the booming market for disposable vapes in the UK, estimated to be worth at least £3 billion annually.
The company is urging the introduction of a licensing system for vape sellers, with penalties for those caught selling to minors, in alignment with the legal age of 18 for purchasing vapes in the UK.
BAT is also advocating for a ban on flavours such as gummy bear or cotton candy, often associated with soft drinks and desserts, which it argues have a unique appeal to the youth. While BAT doesn’t sell these flavours, they have contributed to the success of other leading brands in the market.
These calls for stricter regulations and flavour bans come amid increasing concerns about the impact of vaping, particularly on younger demographics, and mark BAT’s stance on responsible vaping practices.
