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The Bureau of Customs seized P5.070 billion worth of smuggled vape products in the first 10 months of 2024
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Recent crackdown operations included uncovering of smuggled disposable vape with approximate value of P12.6 million in a vape shop in San Pedro, Laguna
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Assorted imported vape devices, vape pods, and disposable vapes worth P6.475 million were separately seized in Quiapo, Manila
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BOC said it will proactively implement stringent regulatory measures to ensure compliance with import standards, and effectively prevent the entry of illicit vape products
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized P5.070 billion worth of smuggled vape products in the first 10 months of 2024 as part of its intensified enforcement efforts against illicit trade of vape products.
Recent crackdown operations included the uncovering of smuggled disposable vape with approximate value of P12.6 million in a vape shop in San Pedro, Laguna, and the seizure of assorted imported vape devices, vape pods, and disposable vapes worth P6.475 million in a separate operation conducted in Quiapo, Manila.
Last April, BOC condemned 14,100 boxes of forfeited vape products worth P1.480 billion discovered in Valenzuela in October 2023. Last August, it also condemned 19,800 and 8,400 boxes of seized vape products.
BOC in a statement said these operations highlight its “unwavering determination to dismantle the illicit networks behind vape smuggling and the continuous strengthening of its enforcement capabilities.”
It added that it “strongly condemns the illicit trade of vape products and all associated unlawful activities.”
The customs bureau said it will be steadfast in its commitment to upholding the provisions outlined in Republic Act (RA) No. 11900, or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, and RA 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
It added that it will “proactively demonstrate resilience in implementing stringent regulatory measures to ensure compliance with import standards, and effectively preventing the entry of illicit vape products, including active prosecution of smuggling cases against persons involved.”
With the support of enhanced intelligence-sharing, BOC said it remains vigilant in addressing emerging trends in illicit trade.
With this, the customs bureau said it intends to continue fostering regular coordination with the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of Trade and Industry, Enforcement and Intelligence Agencies, private stakeholders to conduct joint operations and continuously advance effective enforcement actions against smuggled vape products.
READ: BOC-MICP intercepts smuggled cigarettes, vape products worth P791M
