THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has issued 21,708 notices of violation to sellers of illegal vape products as the agency strengthens its crackdown on the sale of the alternative smoking device.
DTI Undersecretary Ruth Castelo told the Laging Handa public briefing yesterday the agency’s representatives visited 516 physical stores that led to the closure of those found to be selling illegal vape products.
Total value of confiscated vape products from these operations has reached P3.5 million, according to Castelo.
She said the violations, mostly committed by online sellers, involve the absence of graphic or textual warning and of health warning. The law strictly implements age verification and prohibits flavor and packaging that attract minors.
Castelo warned violators can face up to P2 million in penalties and imprisonment.
Minors caught using, buying or selling vape products face up to P10,000 in fines and imprisonment.
