DTI suspends online sales of vape products

‘Protecting our youth is non-negotiable,’ says Trade Minister Alfredo Pascual

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Saturday, July 20, ordered the immediate halt to the online sales of vape products, citing their “significant threat” to the health of minors in particular.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual on Saturday signed Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 24-03, series of 2023, which “suspends with immediate effect the online sales of vaping products, vaping product devices and vaping product systems in marketplaces,” DTI said in a press release.

“Protecting our youth is non-negotiable. The proliferation of vaping products on online marketplaces has made these harmful substances easily accessible to minors, posing a significant threat to their health and well-being. This suspension is a necessary step to curb this alarming trend,” Pascual said.

According to DTI, Pascual gave the order after discussions with key stakeholders in the sector, including manufacturers, importers and distributors.

“We want businesses to thrive, but it must be in accordance with the law. Let’s not make a profit by selling to minors. As long as you comply, we will support you. However, you must prove that you are preventing minors from buying these illegal products,” Pascual was quoted as saying in the DTI statement.

Health experts are calling for stricter regulations on electronic cigarettes and vape pens as these products are aggressively marketed and promoted to young people.

In December 2023, the World Health Organization called for “urgent measures” to control vapes. (READ: WHO says Ban flavored vapes, urges controls on tobacco products)

According to DTI, Pascual also cited the need for “(1) robust tracking systems to monitor product movement from importers to retailers, (2) holding manufacturers and importers accountable for illegal or defective products, not just retailers, and (3) ensuring that distributors inform retailers of the law’s limitations and restrictions to ensure compliance.”

“Furthermore, the DTI chief acknowledged manufacturers’ concerns about unused inventory, noting that some had stopped ordering 90-day supplies since the transition period began. While the DTI prefers not to impose new regulations, Secretary Pascual made it clear that there will be serious consequences for non-compliance,” DTI said.

According to DTI, DAO 24-03 is in compliance with Republic Act No. 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act.

“This law requires measures to prevent minors from accessing vaping products, particularly through online channels. The suspension is also in line with the government’s commitment to promoting a healthy environment and protecting citizens from potential dangers associated with these products,” the department said.

Since its establishment in April, DTI’s Task Force Kalasag has issued 78 violation notices and seized 64,359 violations of vape product regulations, worth P29,487,100. – Rappler.com