The State of the US Vaping Market: Kyle from ESCO BARS Shares Insights at TPE

Feb.25.2023
The State of the US Vaping Market: Kyle from ESCO BARS Shares Insights at TPE
Kyle from ESCO BARS discussed the chaotic e-cigarette market in the US and the need for PMTA certification.

On February 25th, the last day of the TPE exhibition, 2FIRSTS interviewed Kyle, the CEO of ESCO BARS, a brand based in Texas, USA. Kyle stated that the electronic cigarette market in the United States is still fairly chaotic, with nearly two-thirds of vendors at the TPE exhibition violating regulations in their sales.


According to reports, ESCO BARS has been collaborating with a Chinese manufacturer who has a 100,000 square foot facility and has obtained an electronic cigarette production license in China. Kyle admitted that the most important thing at present is that ESCO BARS has not yet obtained PMTA certification in the United States, but the company has already invested $6 million in order to achieve certification.


When asked about the current state of the US market, Kyle candidly stated, "There are a lot of black markets at the TPE trade show. At least 300 booths are 100% illegal and have no intention of complying with PMTA regulations.


Kyle stated that there are numerous unsafe electronic cigarette products circulating in the US market, with potential hazards arising from the e-liquid and batteries. He believes that these unregulated electronic cigarettes are the root cause of many accidents, highlighting the need for greater safety oversight.


Regarding the incident of ELFBAR being taken off the shelves in the UK due to exceeding the limit of nicotine content, Kyle stated that this problem arose due to competition between ELFBAR and black market products.


Kyle stated that due to dishonest participants in the market, they not only break the rules but also violate the law, which puts honest operators at a disadvantage. If legitimate businesses want to enter into competition, they may face similar issues to those faced by ELFBAR.


Kyle stated that the current market turmoil is only temporary and that the future electronic cigarette market will be governed by regulations.


Kyle expressed his enthusiasm towards conducting further research and stated that as long as the data is accurate and positive, they will obtain the PMTA.


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