On June 3rd, 2024, the Philippines Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), marked a milestone in tobacco regulation by issuing the first Philippine Standard (PS) licenses to manufacturers of heated tobacco products (HNB). This move, grounded in Republic Act No. 11900, also known as the “Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act,”.
DTI’s New Regulation
The technical regulation requirements outlined in Republic Act No. 11900 form the basis for the rigorous review process that heated tobacco products and e-cigarettes must undergo to receive the PS license. This legislation aims to standardize product quality, ensure consumer safety, and control the distribution and sale of these novel tobacco products in the Philippines.
Key Recipients of the First PS Licenses
- Venture Technocom System: This Singapore-based conglomerate manufactures the IQOS ILUMA heated tobacco device. With a global presence spanning Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, the Americas, and Europe, Venture Technocom System is a key player in the heated tobacco industry.
- Shenzhen Adwell Technology Co. Ltd.: This company is listed under Shenzhen Adwell Technology Co. Ltd. It is another significant entity that has received the PS mark license.
The PS licenses issued to Venture Technocom System and Shenzhen Adwell Technology Co. Ltd. are valid for three years, with renewal required six months before expiration. This continuous compliance ensures that the products remain aligned with the evolving standards and safety requirements set by the DTI.
Implications for the Industry
The DTI has also listed PMFTC and Royal Connections as authorized importers of the IQOS ILUMA device. PMFTC, a joint venture between Philip Morris International (PMI) and Fortune Tobacco Corporation (FTC), dominates the local cigarette market, controlling approximately 90% of it.
Authorized Importers and Market Dynamics
The DTI has also listed PMFTC and Royal Connections as authorized importers of the IQOS ILUMA device. PMFTC, a joint venture between Philip Morris International (PMI) and Fortune Tobacco Corporation (FTC), dominates the local cigarette market, controlling approximately 90% of it.
Enforcement and Compliance
The DTI Consumer Protection Group, led by Undersecretary Amanda Nograles, is at the forefront of enforcing these new regulations. Undersecretary Nograles emphasized that the transition period and subsequent market sweeps are critical steps in phasing out non-compliant products and protecting consumers from substandard products.
FAQ
Who are the first recipients of the PS licenses for heated tobacco products?
Venture Technocom System and Shenzhen Adwell Technology Co. Ltd. are the first companies to receive PS licenses for their heated tobacco products.
What happens to e-cigarette products without a PS or ICC mark starting June 5, 2024?
Such products will not be allowed to enter the Philippine market, ensuring only compliant products are available to consumers.
How long are the PS licenses valid, and when should they be renewed?
PS licenses are valid for three years and must be renewed six months before their expiration.
Who are the authorized importers of the IQOS ILUMA device?
PMFTC and Royal Connections are authorized importers of the IQOS ILUMA device.
What actions will the DTI take in January 2025 regarding non-compliant products?
The DTI will conduct a market sweep to ensure that all e-cigarette products bear the PS or ICC mark, and non-compliant products will be removed from the market.
