Philippine Government Plans to Establish E-Cigarette Certification Program

According to a report by The Philippine Star on February 29th, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines is planning to establish an e-cigarette certification program domestically to align with the government's efforts to crack down on illegal e-cigarette products.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual has instructed department officials to assess readiness for implementing the e-cigarette bill, and determine the equipment needed for testing.

According to the Republic Act 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Act, the law will come into effect in June 2024. The Act stipulates that all imported and manufactured vaporized nicotine, non-nicotine products, and new tobacco products must undergo a mandatory certification process by the DTI before being distributed in the market.

Last week, Assistant Secretary Amanda Nograles of the DTI Consumer Protection Group led an inspection of the existing e-cigarette testing facilities at the Philippine Standards Bureau laboratory in Cavite. The inspection evaluated the testing processes for e-cigarette products and their associated accessories, including dry batteries and secondary batteries.

In order to ensure the completeness and effectiveness of the testing process, an evaluation of various laboratory instruments was also conducted.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has stated that current budget constraints are hindering the coverage of testing facilities for heated tobacco products (HTP), e-cigarette products, and other consumer goods. The House Committee on Appropriations and Means has directed the DTI and the Department of Budget and Management to seek additional funds in the national expenditure plan to expand DTI's testing capabilities.

This additional budget will also be used to increase testing facilities for HTP consumer products and electronic liquids, as well as enhance the certification process for DTI.