DTI: Investment in trade law enforcement pays off

THE government’s intensified enforcement efforts have yielded positive results, preventing over P150 million worth of substandard products from flooding the market and protecting Filipino consumers.

In a report submitted to the Department of Trade and Industry, the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) highlighted the economic gains resulting from the formation of a task force targeting substandard products and illegal vapes.

The FTEB reported the confiscation of more than P150 million worth of substandard products, including illegal vapes, to safeguard consumers and legitimate businesses. Of the total, more than P147 million was attributed to Task Force Kalasag, which was established in March 2024.

Task Force Kalasag conducted 12 enforcement rounds from April 22 to July 30 and inspected 1,804 stores. The task force, a composite team of technical staff from the FTEB and DTI regional offices, became operational in April 2024 to conduct nationwide monitoring and enforcement activities, ensuring businesses comply with technical and legal regulations affecting critical consumer commodities, including vape products.

“With a combined retail value of P147.68 million for all the confiscated products, set against the initial budget of P43 million for creating and mobilizing Task Force Kalasag, it is safe to say that the DTI’s investment in heightened enforcement has paid off,” the FTEB said.

The FTEB said the increased consumer protection and awareness, along with the prevention of economic losses from health- and safety-related hazards, has been achieved by removing uncertified and dangerous consumer products from the market.

The FTEB serves as the DTI’s regulatory and implementing arm, enforcing compliance with various trade and industry laws.

Overall, the FTEB confiscated 423,077 products valued at P151.56 million as of Aug. 2, 2024. Of the total, 357,932 products worth P122 million violated technical regulations, while 65,145 units valued at P29.69 million violated the Vape Law.

The FTEB’s regular monitoring and enforcement activities in the National Capital Region were expanded nationwide under Department Order No. 24-56, which established Task Force Kalasag.

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