British American Tobacco Sues Altria and Philip Morris over IQOS
British American Tobacco (NYSE: BTI) is about two years behind Philip Morris International (NYSE: PM) in getting government approval for its heat-not-burn glo brand of electronic cigarette. But BAT may be able to play catch-up since it sued its rival earlier this month for patent infringement.
The tobacco giant says Philip Morris' IQOS holder (which includes a rechargeable and reusable power unit, a disposable tobacco stick, and a charger) violates its patents.
Because British American has sued Philip Morris through the International Trade Commission (ITC) as well as in federal court, it may be able to block Philip Morris from importing the IQOS device into the U.S.
Source Fool.com
