The Philippine Department of Trade and Industry has suspended 14 vape manufacturers and importers for failing to attach packaging and health warning labels to their products as required. Companies that violate the regulations face fines, jail time, and the revocation of their business licenses.
14 vape firms in the Philippines were suspended for product packaging violations
On Jan 15, the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued a notice saying that 14 electronic cigarette manufacturers and importers had been suspended because they failed to attach packaging and health warning labels to their products.
These companies violate Section 4(d) of the RA11900 Act, which requires companies to comply with Internal Revenue Service (BIR) financial identification regulations and face penalties for violating these regulations. A fine of 2 million pesos ($35,000) and two years in prison for a first violation; A fine of 4 million pesos ($70,000) and four years in prison for a second violation; A third violation carries a fine of 5 million pesos ($85,000) and six years in prison, as well as the suspension of a business license.
The DTI announced the list of 14 vape manufacturers and importers that have been punished:
- Shenzhen Nevoks Technology Co. Ltd. & 2229 Non-Specialized Wholesale Trading;
- Mr. O’s Liquido OPC;
- Sacredvapors Corporation.;
- VIP Bros Incorporated.;
- 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.
The DTI said it has issued preliminary orders (PO) or Preventive Action Orders (PMO) against the companies to temporarily cease their operations in manufacturing, importing, distributing, selling, and promoting vaped nicotine products. The suspension will remain in effect until a final ruling is made.
The DTI reiterated that manufacturers and importers must comply with packaging requirements for vape products, including graphic health warnings and financial labeling. Otherwise, violators will be held legally and financially liable.
