The Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Fred Pascual signed the Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 24-03, series of 2023 on Friday.
The order mandates the temporary suspension of selling vape products across all e-commerce platforms. Pascual said in a press briefing in Makati City that it will immediately take effect, and would only be lifted once merchants and owners of the said platforms convince DTI that they are not selling vape products to minors.
“The protection of our youth is non-negotiable. The proliferation of vapor products on online marketplaces has made these harmful substances easily accessible to minors, posing a significant threat to their health and well-being. This suspension is a necessary step to curb this alarming trend,” he stated.
DTI’s move is anchored on the provisions of Republic Act (RA) No. 11900, or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act. The law prohibits minors from accessing vapor products, particularly through online marketplaces. Its suspension aligns with the government’s initiative to promote a healthy environment that buffers citizens, especially minors, from potential hazards brought about by the said products.
“We want businesses to thrive, but it must be in line with the law. Let’s not profit from selling to minors. As long as you comply, we will support you. However, you must prove that you are preventing minors from buying these illegal products,” Pascual remarked.
The DTI will work closely with the relevant agencies to supervise the vape industry and impose strict measures to ensure public compliance with RA 11900.
Pascual guaranteed that severe consequences would result from non-compliance.
