DTI Takes Action Against Online Sale of Illegal Vape and Tobacco Products

On June 7th, according to an article on the Philippine news website Inquirer, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines expressed firm support for cracking down on the illegal sale of e-cigarettes and tobacco products in the country, with a particular focus on addressing non-compliant commercial activities on online platforms such as Lazada and Shopee.

The Philippine Medical Association is "confused.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has taken notice of a letter sent by the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) to the government, requesting action to be taken against the alleged illegal sale of cigarettes and e-cigarettes on the internet.

The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) | Image Source: 2FIRSTS

The PMA stated:

We are confused as to how these tobacco and e-cigarette products that do not comply with regulations, are unregistered and not taxed, can be openly advertised, sold and distributed in the local market.

PMA has also sent copies of the letter to Philippine Senator Pia Cayetano and other relevant government agencies, hoping they can provide assistance.

Pia Cayetano | Photo courtesy of Philippine Parliament Debate

The DTI has emphasized that they maintain ongoing dialogue with these reputable ecommerce platforms to rigorously screen and manage online sellers.

The department also stated that they are closely coordinating with other agencies such as the Department of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the National Taxation Bureau to enforce the Philippines' "Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Product Regulation Act.

The Department of Trade and Industry regularly issues notices of infractions and orders to cease sales against online and offline merchants who violate the law.

E-commerce platform operates illegally

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has stated that representatives from e-commerce platforms expressed their "utmost willingness to cooperate" during a meeting with the consumer protection group of the DTI. Shopee, after meeting with the DTI, removed over a million illegal e-cigarette products from its website the following day.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry reports that as of now, Shopee and Lazada are still listing electronic cigarette products that do not comply with regulations. These products do not carry the required health warning labels for the Philippines and are being sold at prices below the suggested retail price.

The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) has expressed concern over the sale of tobacco and electronic cigarette products via illicit channels. The PMA warns that such practices circumvent regulatory oversight, posing a threat to the public's welfare. It argues that addressing the issue of illegal tobacco and e-cigarette sales, and enforcing tax and regulatory policies, is crucial for safeguarding the interests of the government and the health of the Filipino people.

The association pointed out:

We are unable to verify whether these products have been registered and the correct taxes paid due to a lack of required internal tax stamps, packaging or labeling requirements.

Reference:

The Department of Trade and Industry is taking action against the illegal sale of vaping and tobacco products on online platforms such as Shopee and Lazada.