The Philippines Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has recently suspended 14 manufacturers and importers of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products for violating the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act (RA 11900). The companies failed to comply with packaging and health warning requirements, as well as the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)’s revenue stamping rules.

Key Details of the Suspension

🚨 List of Suspended Companies

The DTI has released the names of the manufacturers and importers who have been issued Preliminary Orders (POs) or Preventive Measure Orders (PMOs). These companies are now prohibited from producing, importing, distributing, selling, or promoting their vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products until further notice.

⚖️ Legal Consequences

Non-compliance with RA 11900 carries severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment:

• First Offense: A fine of 2 million Philippine pesos (PHP) and 2 years of imprisonment.
• Second Offense: A fine of 4 million PHP and 4 years of imprisonment.
• Third Offense: A fine of 5 million PHP, 6 years of imprisonment, and revocation of business permits and licenses.

🛑 DTI’s Call for Vigilance

The Office of the Special Authority on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products and Novel Tobacco Products (OSMV) urges consumers to remain vigilant and report violations, including uncertified products and non-compliant distributors or retailers.

Background: RA 11900 and Its Requirements

The Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act (RA 11900), enacted to regulate the vaping industry, mandates strict compliance with:

• Packaging and Health Warnings: Products must display clear health warnings and comply with packaging standards to inform consumers about potential risks.
• Revenue Stamping: All products must bear BIR revenue stamps to ensure proper taxation and traceability.

Implications for the Vaping Industry

The suspension of these 14 companies highlights the Philippine government’s commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting public health. For manufacturers, importers, and retailers, this serves as a critical reminder of the importance of compliance.

1. Regulatory Compliance

Companies must ensure their products meet all legal requirements, including packaging, labeling, and revenue stamping, to avoid penalties and suspensions.

2. Consumer Trust

Adhering to regulations not only avoids legal repercussions but also builds consumer trust by demonstrating a commitment to safety and transparency.

3. Market Impact

The suspension of major players could disrupt the supply chain, creating opportunities for compliant companies to fill the gap and expand their market share.

4. Role of Independent Sellers

Independent sellers and wholesalers must verify the compliance of their suppliers to avoid distributing illegal or non-compliant products.

Conclusion

The DTI’s suspension of 14 vape manufacturers and importers underscores the importance of regulatory compliance in the vaping industry. As the Philippines continues to enforce RA 11900, companies must prioritize adherence to packaging, health warning, and revenue stamping requirements to avoid severe penalties and maintain consumer trust.

For the industry, this serves as a wake-up call to align with legal standards and contribute to a safer, more transparent market.

ameca-mall  Philippines DTI, vape suspension, RA 11900, BIR revenue stamps, vaping regulations, nicotine products, non-nicotine products, compliance, vaping industry trends.