Philippines uncovered 48 illegal e-cigarette smuggling cases in 2024, with a value of about $100 million
Time:2025-04-08
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President Ferdinand Marcos on Monday led the condemnation of P3.26 billion worth of smuggled e-cigarettes, e-cigarette parts and accessories as the government intensifies its fight against rampant smuggling and illegal sales.
The President stressed the dual threat posed by smuggled e-cigarettes: economic losses due to tax evasion and, more importantly, serious public health risks, especially to minors.
He stressed the government‘s resolve to protect public health and enforce customs regulations as he led an inspection and condemnation at the Bureau of Customs in Manila‘s South Port yesterday.
"In 2023, we seized about P3 billion worth of smuggled e-cigarettes. That number doubled last year, and this year, from January to March alone, we are on track to exceed that number," Mr. Marcos said.
He noted that several of the confiscated e-cigarette products contained toxic substances in their atomizing fluids, which would not pass inspection if the items had entered the country legally.
"Some of these liquids were found to contain toxic ingredients," Mr. Marcos said.
"It is even more worrisome that the packaging is clearly targeted at children. Not only are these products unsafe, they are clearly trying to appeal to our youth," he added.
Officials also expressed concern about the lack of regulation, as smuggled e-cigarettes bypass all security checks and documentation required to legally enter the country.
"We don‘t know the manufacturing process, nor do we know if these products are safe. That‘s what makes them so dangerous," the President said.
Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said the seized shipments were the result of 10 operations conducted in various areas of Metro Manila in 2024.
The operations, led by the Manila International Container Port (MICP), the Port of Manila (POM), and the Customs Intelligence Group, played a key role in identifying and intercepting illegal shipments.
"These products not only violate customs laws, but also pose a serious threat to consumer health. Today‘s condemnation sends a clear message to smugglers that the government is unwavering in its fight against legal trade," Rubio said.
Currently, there has been a sharp increase in the use of e-cigarettes among young people in the Philippines.
The 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) estimated that one in seven students aged 13-15 currently use e-cigarettes.
Data from the 2019 National Nutrition Survey also showed that 44% of e-cigarette users do not smoke.
A report by Research and Markets, a leading global market research agency, also showed that the Philippine e-cigarette and vaping market is expected to reach US$345.6 million by 2030.
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