Tobacco warehouses have been placed under strict surveillance and monitoring by the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) on tighter implementation of industry compliance with government standards.
NTA said in a statement it is strengthening its regulatory oversight of tobacco trading, handling and documentation to enhance transparency, reduce illegal tobacco trade, and protect tobacco farmers and stakeholders across the industry.
NTA Administrator and CEO Belinda S. Sanchez said the inspections are essential to maintaining integrity in the tobacco supply chain, covering both locally grown leaf tobacco and imported raw materials.
“These inventories ensure that all tobacco products stored or traded in the country comply with regulatory requirements, including permits, documentation, and proper handling practices.
This is vital in protecting our farmers, consumers, and the industry as a whole,” Sanchez said.
NTA’s Regulation Department headed by Atty. Rohbert A. Ambros inspects tobacco warehouses.
By enforcing fair trading practices, the NTA safeguards farmers against unfair market manipulation and supports the stability of the tobacco sector.
Administrator Sanchez emphasized that these ongoing inspections reflect the government’s broader policy to uphold transparency and strengthen the entire value chain of the Philippine tobacco industry.
“The NTA remains committed to ensuring that all tobacco traded in the country is legitimate, properly documented, and compliant with standards that protect both farmers and consumers,” she said.
