The online distribution, marketing, and sale of vape devices has been banned by the Philippine government.
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual stated on July 19 that this suspension is only temporary until the e-marketplaces can persuade us of their adherence to their commitments under Republic Act No. 11900, also known as the vape law, and other laws and associated issuances.
Pascual claims that the main reasons for the injunction were to stop vape items from being supplied to minors and to make sure that those that are being sold online adhere to legal safety requirements.
To be able to start selling again, vape shops and internet sales platforms need to provide a sworn certification attesting to their legal compliance.
In a recent inquiry, the Department of Trade (DTI) and Industry looked over 90,000 vape companies. Of those, 284 had broken numerous rules, such as selling vapes within 100 meters of a school or using flavours that were intended to appeal to children.
Thus far this year, the DTI has seized vape items valued at least PHP32.76 million ($561,454.25), primarily for being sold without the required certifications, such as the Import Commodity Clearance sticker and the Philippine Standard mark.
The Vape Act, which became operative in July 2022, mandated that vape items be certified in June, according to a department order.
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