DTI suspends online sales of vape products

“The protection of 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 suspension of online sales of vape products, citing their “significant threat” to the health of minors as the reason.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual on Saturday signed Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 24-03, Series 2024, which “suspends the online sale of vapor products, vapor product devices, and vapor product systems on marketplaces with immediate effect,” the DTI said in a press release.

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

DTI said Pascual issued the order after discussions with senior industry stakeholders, including manufacturers, importers and distributors.

“We want businesses to flourish, but it must be in accordance with the law. Let us not profit from 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 e-cigarettes, citing the aggressive sales and marketing of these products to young people.

In December 2023, the World Health Organization called for “urgent action” to control e-cigarettes. (READ: WHO calls for ban on flavoured e-cigarettes, urges controls like those on tobacco products)

According to the DTI, Pascual also pointed out the need for “(1) robust tracking systems to monitor the movement of goods from importer to retailer, (2) holding manufacturers and importers accountable for illegal or defective products, not just retailers, and (3) ensuring that distributors educate retailers on the legal restrictions and limitations to ensure compliance.”

“In addition, the DTI chief acknowledged manufacturers’ concerns about unused stocks, pointing out that some have not ordered 90-day supplies since the transition period began. While the DTI prefers to avoid imposing new regulations, Minister Pascual made it clear that non-compliance will result in severe consequences,” the DTI said.

DTI said DAO 24-03 is in line with Republic Act No. 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act.

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

Since its inception in April, the DTI’s Task Force Kalasag has issued 78 notices of violation and seized 64,359 violating vape products valued at P29,487,100. – Rappler.com