DTI Issues Trading Suspension on Several Vape Brands

The Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has warned consumers about several vape brands that are subject to trading suspension due to violations of Republic Act No. 11900, also known as the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act. The DTI issued Preliminary Orders and Preventive Measures Pending Formal Investigation Orders against the following brands:

Brand	Manufacturer	Importer
SHFT & DR FREEZE	Shenzhen Adwell Technology Co. LTD	SHFT Electronic Gadgets Trading OPC
AEROGIN & DON BARS	Genome Flavor Technology	Aerogin Consumer Electronics Trading Corporation
CHILLAX	Shenzhen Weimei Electronic Technology Co., LTD.	SHFT Electronic Gadgets Trading OPC
BLACK ELITE	Shenzhen x Black Vape Technology Co. LTD.	Jey 888 Trading Corporation
LOST MARY	ZCREW International, Inc.	Dongguan Airv Technology Co., LTD

Formal Charges and Penalties

The DTI has filed formal charges against these brands for violating Section 4(d) of RA 11900. As a result, trading of these brands is effectively suspended pending the resolution of the formal charges. The PS Licenses of SHFT, DR FREEZE, AEROGIN, DON BARS, CHILLAX and Lost Mary have also been suspended.

Penalties for selling or trading these products are as follows:

First offense: PHP2 million
Second offense: PHP4 million
Third offense: PHP5 million and cancellation of licenses

Policy Advisory on Elements of Offenses

The DTI Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products, their Devices, and Novel Tobacco Products (OSMV) has released a policy advisory on the Elements of Offenses Provided Under RA 11900. This advisory aims to define the elements of the offenses to ensure orderly enforcement of the law and establish uniform and predictable resolutions to formal charges. The advisory can be accessed through the DTI’s official website: https://www.dti.gov.ph/archives/advisories-archives/republic-act-11900/.

Reporting Erring Retailers, Distributors, and Manufacturers

The DTI encourages consumers to report erring retailers, distributors, and manufacturers through the Consumer Care Hotline at DTI (1-384) or by email at [email protected]. By reporting violations, consumers can help the DTI enforce the law and protect public health.

As the vaping industry continues to grow, it is crucial for manufacturers, importers, and retailers to comply with the regulations set forth by RA 11900. The DTI’s actions against these violating brands serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the law and prioritizing consumer safety.

News source: DTI warns consumers of vape brands subject to trading suspension

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.