Lovell White Durrant's client British American Tobacco (BAT) has secured an important court victory after the failure of Bolivia to sue it in a US court.

Bolivia is attempting to sue BAT brands such as Philip Morris for the costs incurred treating its citizens for illnesses caused by smoking.

But an attempt to get the case heard in a Texan district court failed after the judge ruled his court did not have jurisdiction to try the case.

"This is one of at least six similar actions brought in the US by foreign governments. Why none of these countries seem to have a court system their own governments have confidence in is a mystery," Judge Samuel Kent said.

"The court seriously doubts whether Brazoria County has ever seen a live Bolivian, even on the Discovery Channel. Apparently this rural court is in common discussion even on the mountain peaks of Bolivia."

The judge recommended that the Court of the District of Columbia should take the case because "such a Bench, well-populated with renowned intellects, can better bear the burden than this single judge who moves his lips when he reads".

Other countries including Thailand, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Panama and Venezuela are bringing similar actions against the big tobacco companies in the US.

Lovells product liability partner Mark Huleatt-James said: "Bolivia is fighting with no legal basis for its claim. It is also inappropriate for it to do so in the US instead of in its own court system."

He added: "Bolivia chose Texas because it is more open to non-US plaintiffs."