,On January 29, 2026, Philippines notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) and circulated a draft Department Administrative Order (DAO) proposing a prohibition on the importation and manufacture of vape open pods and e-liquids. The measure, issued by the Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products (OSMV) under the Department of Trade and Industry, aims to protect public health by ensuring only compliant vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products remain in the market. The draft follows reports of vape products allegedly containing synthetic cannabinoids, which pose serious health risks. The proposed DAO references Republic Act No. 11900 and prior DTI technical regulations on mandatory product certification. It is planned for adoption in February 2026 and will enter into force immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or widely circulated newspapers. The comment period for stakeholders ends on February 4, 2026.
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