The National Tobacco Administration (NTA) has expressed its support for a unified approach and stronger regulatory measures to address the growing issue of illicit tobacco and vape product trade.

NTA Administrator and CEO Belinda S. Sanchez emphasized that a coordinated effort and comprehensive regulatory initiatives are essential to mitigate the impact of illicit trade and ensure a secure environment for the tobacco industry.

She further highlighted the need for strengthened national policies, enhanced regional cooperation, improved enforcement mechanisms, and increased public awareness to combat the illicit tobacco trade.

As a key government regulatory agency, the NTA has leveraged its functions to help curb illegal cigarette manufacturing and trading in the country.

To raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco smuggling, the NTA has carried out various communication campaigns, including the distribution of posters, webinars, forums, audio-visual presentations on social media, and a radio program.

“The illicit tobacco trade is a significant challenge that adversely impacts government revenues, public health, national security, and the livelihoods of Filipino farmers,” Sanchez said.

Currently, approximately 2.2 million Filipinos are financially dependent on tobacco, including over 430,000 farmers, farm workers and their families.

The NTA’s latest monitoring has revealed the widespread prevalence of illicit tobacco trade in Central Luzon and the rampant proliferation of illegal cigarettes in Mindanao. Many of the confiscated cigarettes were found to be smuggled, illicit whites without tax stamps, lacking Graphic Health Warnings and carrying unregistered brands.

This illegal trade has contributed to a gradual decline in national government revenue, with the Bureau of Internal Revenue estimating an annual loss of up to P100 billion.

According to the 2023 Euromonitor Report, the rise in illicit tobacco and vape products has led to a 35.2 percent decline in legal tobacco product sales from 2019 to 2023.