Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. reports that the BIR has caught a total of 506 illicit vape retailers/resellers as of October 31, 2024. The BIR conducted a simultaneous and nationwide raid against illicit vape retailers and resellers last October 16, 2024. Thereafter, Commissioner Lumagui ordered weekly raids by the Revenue Regions and Revenue Districts. The increase to 506 illicit vape stores was a result of the weekly raids of the BIR, after its nationwide raid.
“As of the end of October 2024, the BIR has caught 506 illicit vape retailers/resellers during our raids. After our nationwide raid last October 16, there was a substantial increase of illicit vape stores. The BIR will not stop raiding illicit vape retailers/resellers until the vape industry complies with our tax laws and regulations. Expect regular raids” Commissioner Lumagui stated.
The BIR estimates a tax liability, inclusive of penalties, of Php 181,695,490.14 as a result of these continuous raids. Non-payment of excise taxes, lack of internal revenue stamps and lack of BIR registration of the vape products are the common violations of illicit vape retailers/resellers.
The BIR will release regular updates on its nationwide crackdown against illicit vape retailers/resellers, this will include updates on the total number of illicit vape stores and their total tax liability.
