THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has suspended 14 manufacturers and importers of Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products for violating the packaging and health warning requirements under RA11900 or the “Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act.”
These companies violated Section 4(d) of RA11900, which mandates compliance with internal revenue fiscal marking requirements as prescribed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). Non-compliance with these regulations will result in penalties, including fines and imprisonment. As stated under Section 23 of RA11900, the following penalties will be imposed:
1st Offense: Php 2,000,000 fine + imprisonment of 2 years;
2nd Offense: Php 4,000,000 fine + imprisonment of 4 years;
3rd Offense: Php 5,000,000 fine + imprisonment of 6 years + revocation of business permits and licenses.
The listed manufacturers and importers were issued with a Preliminary Order (PO) or Preventive Measure Order (PMO), and thus are suspended from manufacturing, importing, distributing, selling, and promoting ALL of their Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products. The PO/PMO is valid and effective until a decision on the formal charge is rendered and/or becomes final.
Manufacturers and importers are reminded to comply with the packaging requirements for Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products, including graphic health warnings and fiscal marking; otherwise, they shall be held liable under RA11900.
The Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products, their Devices, and Novel Tobacco Products (OSMV) encourages consumers to remain vigilant and report any violations, including uncertified products and errant distributors and retailers.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the DTI Philippines Facebook Page.
