The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) has launched a self-assessment program to determine its readiness in implementing the Vape Law and create guidelines on equipment testing.
“It is essential to have a well-maintained machinery, up-to-date methodologies, and an efficient laboratory management system to bring vapor products into the market with greater confidence in their safety and performance,” said Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual.
The DTI aims to ensure that it has the capability to enforce the law once product registration becomes mandatory by June 2024, under the Vape Law.
All importation and manufacturing of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products and novel tobacco products will be required to undergo the DTI mandatory certification process prior to market distribution.
The DTI’s Consumer Protection Group recently inspected existing vape testing facilities located in the Bureau of Philippine Standards laboratory in Cavite.
The inspection evaluated the testing protocols for vapor products and related accessories, including dry cells and secondary batteries. The team also conducted assessments of various laboratory instruments ensuring the integrity and efficacy of the testing process.
Currently, budgetary constraints prevent the testing facilities from covering heated tobacco (HTP) consumables, e-liquids for vapor products, and nicotine pouches.
The House Committee on Ways and Means has instructed the DTI and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to secure additional funding in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) to expand the DTI’s testing capabilities.
The additional budget will fund more testing facilities for HTP consumables and e-liquids, and enhance DTI’s certification process, vital for public safety.
Pascual reaffirmed DTI’s commitment to provide consumers with high-quality products that meet both national and international standards. Furthermore, the DTI will continue its efforts to ensure Philippine factories comply with government standards.