According to ABS-CBN News, Philippine media source, the government is preparing for the enactment of the new “E-Cigarette Act,” set to be effective in June.
Registration Mandate by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will require all e-cigarette products to undergo registration with the agency.
- This mandate applies to both electronic nicotine and non-nicotine products, as well as new tobacco items.
- Companies are advised to start the registration process early due to potential time constraints.
DTI Certification Process
DTI certification involves obtaining the Philippine Standard (PS) mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) label.
Transition Period and Market Clean-up
- Current e-cigarette stocks in the market can be sold until January 5, 2025.
- Following this date, a market clean-up will occur, and e-cigarette products lacking PS licenses or ICC labels will be prohibited from sale.
- This transition period spans six months.
Monitoring and Inspection Measures
- DTI officials, including Undersecretary Amanda Nograles, stress the importance of monitoring stores to prevent minors from accessing e-cigarette products.
- Inspections will be carried out to identify any presence of cannabis oil in e-cigarettes.
Tax Stamps by Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will introduce tax stamps on e-cigarette products, similar to the process for imported cigarettes and alcoholic beverages.
- This measure aims to reduce the spread of unregulated e-cigarette products nationwide.
Government’s Enforcement Pledge
- The government is committed to enforcing the new E-Cigarette Act rigorously to protect children and potentially boost tax revenue.
The upcoming implementation of the E-Cigarette Act showcases the government’s proactive approach in regulating the e-cigarette industry to safeguard public health and ensure product quality and safety.
