Confidential documents seen by The Africa Report show that BAT Kenya Plc imported ten tonnes of Velo – the new name for the nicotine pouches in Kenya, and the name given to the product in other countries – from South Africa in July 2022, and has already ordered additional supplies, which are expected to arrive in the country by the end of August. An initial ban on the nicotine pouches, previously called Lyft, was established in October 2020.
Insiders tell The Africa Report, on condition of anonymity, that about seven tonnes out of the ten imported have been repackaged and dispatched for sales, which is part of “market testing” before full re-introduction.
“[BAT] are closely watching the market and reactions. The next import was delayed due to the elections, but could be more than July supply,” says a source at BAT, who fears possible dismissal by the company.
The product carries genuine
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