Shenzhen Smoore Technology, which makes and markets cannabis vapes under the CCELL brand, has been hit with a lawsuit alleging an illegal monopoly.
U.S.-based vape maker Next Level Ventures earlier this month filed the countersuit, which accuses Smoore of working to stifle competition.
According to MJBizDaily, Smoore in 2021 sued several U.S. vape makers for patent infringement. Most either settled or went out of business.
Next Level claims that Smoore’s intellectual property related to vaporizers was up for sale before the company filed for patents.
The company also accused Smoore of fraudulently obtaining one patent and for targeting competition due to falling sales.
Next Level has asked that all claims against it be dismissed and that it be awarded damages related to the litigation.
