Philippines mandates certification for nicotine pouches

The Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has introduced mandatory product certification for nicotine pouches. Under Department Administrative Order No. 26-07, manufacturers, importers, and distributors have a 12-month compliance period before uncertified products are barred from the market.

The new framework brings nicotine pouches under the Philippine Standard (PS) Licensing Scheme. Requirements include demonstrating in-plant testing capabilities for nicotine content, pH, and water activity, alongside mandatory independent testing by DTI-recognized laboratories.

Retail packaging must include specific information in English or Filipino, such as nicotine content, ingredients, allergen details, and health warnings. Packages are also required to display the prescribed PS certification mark and warnings set by the Department of Health.