On August 6, 2024, the Philippines Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) updated its certification list for vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products. The number of companies holding PS certifications has now increased to eight, comprising four licensed vaporized e-cigarette companies and four licensed heated tobacco companies. Currently, no companies hold ICC certification.
First Batch of Certified Companies
Initial Certifications
The first batch of e-cigarette companies to receive PS certification included:
- Venture Technocom System: Manufacturer of IQOS ILUMA heated tobacco devices, based in Singapore with a global presence in Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, the Americas, and Europe.
- Shenzhen Adwell Technology Co., Ltd.: Known for the Adwell trademark and brands such as SHFT & DR FREEZE, which have multiple sub-brands/products.
Newly Certified Vaporized E-Cigarette Companies
Luxshare Electronic Technology (Enshi) Co., Ltd.
This company received PS certification for the X-VAPE brand. X-VAPE emphasizes compliance as a key selling point, as noted on its Instagram account.
Shenzhen HEC Technology Co., Ltd.
Certified for the AEROGIN & DON BARS brands, Shenzhen HEC Technology Co., Ltd. has been active in the Philippine market since April 2022, according to its official website and the AEROGIN PH Facebook account.
Shenzhen Weimei Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.
Received PS certification for the CHILLAX brand. CHILLAX shares origins with SHFT, as indicated by promotional materials on Facebook.
Newly Certified Heated Tobacco Companies
Pt Hanjaya Mandala Sampoerna Tbk.
A subsidiary of Philip Morris International, this company received PS certification for the TEREA brand.
Huizhou Tonly Electronics Limited
Certified for the BONDS BY IQOS brand, Huizhou Tonly Electronics Limited aligns with the Philip Morris umbrella.
Philip Morris Polska S.A.
This Polish subsidiary of Philip Morris International received PS certification for the BLENDS brand, a dedicated consumable for BONDS BY IQOS.
Significance of Certifications
Compliance and Market Expansion
These certifications signify compliance with the Philippines’ regulatory standards, ensuring that the products meet safety and quality requirements. The increase in certified companies indicates a growing market and stricter regulatory oversight in the e-cigarette and heated tobacco product sectors.
Industry Impact
The presence of major players like Philip Morris International through its various subsidiaries reflects the significant investment and interest in the Philippine market. These certifications help maintain consumer trust and product reliability.
Authorized Testing Laboratories
The Philippines has qualified two Chinese laboratories for testing:
- Shenzhen Element Testing Co., Ltd.
- Shenzhen Webb Testing Technology Co., Ltd.
These laboratories are authorized to conduct tests ensuring that e-cigarette and heated tobacco products meet the necessary standards for certification.
The update to the PS certification list for vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products in the Philippines marks an important step in regulatory compliance and market growth. The addition of six new companies to the certified roster underscores the evolving landscape of the e-cigarette and heated tobacco product market. With stringent standards and authorized testing laboratories, the Philippines is ensuring the safety and quality of products available to consumers.
FAQs
What is PS certification?
PS (Philippine Standard) certification ensures that products meet the safety and quality standards set by the Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS).
Which companies were part of the first batch to receive PS certification?
The first batch included Venture Technocom System and Shenzhen Adwell Technology Co., Ltd.
Which new companies received PS certification for vaporized e-cigarettes?
The new companies include Luxshare Electronic Technology (Enshi) Co., Ltd., Shenzhen HEC Technology Co., Ltd., and Shenzhen Weimei Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.
Which new companies received PS certification for heated tobacco products?
The newly certified heated tobacco companies are Pt Hanjaya Mandala Sampoerna Tbk., Huizhou Tonly Electronics Limited, and Philip Morris Polska S.A.
Why is PS certification important?
PS certification is important as it ensures that products comply with national safety and quality standards, providing assurance to consumers about the reliability and safety of the products they use.
