MANILA, Philippines — A health advocacy group has called on vape manufacturers and stakeholders to ensure compliance with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)’s registration requirements and in paying duties and taxes.
Safevape PH said the government has initiated a move to regulate the vape technology industry through the DTI’s Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products (OSMV).
Recently, the DTI-OSMV approved the application for accreditation of Guandong Boopower Industry Co. Ltd. (GBPI) and its local agent One Tech Ventures OPC.
Safevape PH said the approval of GBPI’s license belied claims by some suppliers that the process of accreditation is cumbersome, prompting many of them to operate illegally.
The group was reacting to reports that vape manufacturers, distributors and importers were complaining of having a hard time complying with government regulations, especially in securing Philippine Standard Quality and/or Safety Mark and Import Commodity Clearance Sticker from the DTI.
Under Republic Act 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Law, manufacturers or importers must register their products and secure licenses to operate.
They are also required to adhere to packaging standards and pay taxes.
Manufacturers, distributors and importers were earlier given an 18-month transition period to comply with the regulations under the Vape Law.
Safevape PH said vape manufacturers should comply with the regulations to ensure the health and safety of consumers.
It also advocates for transparency and accountability while also supporting educational campaigns to inform the public about the risks and benefits of vaping.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue has been running after illegal retailers and resellers to discourage vape smugglers from bringing their products into the country.