FAILURE to put packaging and health warnings to their products prompted the suspension of 14 vape manufacturers and importers, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced on Wednesday.
They were penalized for breaching Section 4(d) of Republic Act 11900, or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, which stipulates compliance to the Bureau of Internal Revenue fiscal marking regulations.
Penalties for first offense consist of P2 million in fines and two years’ imprisonment; second offense, P4-million fine and four years’ imprisonment; and third offense, P5-million fine, six years’ imprisonment and revocation of business permits and licenses.
Among the suspended vape makers were Shenzhen Nevoks Technology Co. Ltd. & 2229 Non Specialized Wholesale Trading; Mr. O’s Liquido OPC; Sacredvapors Corp.; VIP Bros Inc.; Zcrew International Inc. & Dongguan Air Technology Co. Ltd; VIP Bors Inc. doing business under the name and style of Pastry Vapors Vape Juice Manufacturing; Wang Dao Technology (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd. & Sky Rocket Philippines; Shenzhen Smug Vape Technology Co. Ltd. & Semba Trading Corp.; Steep and Drip Manufacturing Corp.; Viscosity Consumer Electronics Trading Corp.; and Wang Dao Technology (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd. & Wkd Ltd.
DTI clarified that while the list contains only 11 entries, the suspension involves 14 manufacturers including partnerships, as shown by the use of “&,” in which manufacturers and importers are paired.
Preliminary Order
A Preliminary Order or Preventive Measure Order has been issued to the aforementioned companies, temporarily suspending their operations in manufacturing, importation, distribution, selling and promotion of vaporized nicotine products.
The suspension is valid and effective until a final decision is rendered on the formal charge.
DTI reiterated its call for manufacturers and importers to comply with the packaging requirements for vape products, including graphic health warnings and fiscal markings. Otherwise, violators will face legal and financial sanctions.
Moreover, the Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products, their Devices and Novel Tobacco Products enjoined consumers to remain vigilant and report violations, including uncertified products and errant distributors and retailers.
Meanwhile, DTI said manufacturers, importers and distributors of vape products, which failed to obtain the required Philippine Standard certification on Dec. 31, 2024, will be slapped with penalties of up to P400,000 and possible imprisonment.
This is in accordance with Department Administrative Order (DAO) 24-11 on Supplemental Technical Regulations for DAO 22-06 (2022) and DAO 24-02 (2024) on the Mandatory Product Certification of Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products. This applies to products intended for importation, distribution and sale in the Philippines in all online platforms, digital marketplaces and brick-and-mortar stores.
Be the first to comment