Eric Dee, a prominent figure in the Philippine dining scene, is known for his innovative ventures in the culinary world. From the success of renowned restaurants like Hawker Chan and Mesa to his pioneering efforts in the cloud kitchen space, Dee has built a reputation for quality and forward-thinking leadership. Now, he takes on a new challenge as the first Filipino to launch a fully compliant vape brand, X-VAPE.
As CEO of X-VAPE, Dee is set to disrupt the vape industry with a strong emphasis on legal compliance and consumer safety. His vision goes beyond commercial success—he aims to reshape an industry often criticized for lax standards and questionable practices. Dee’s approach champions transparency and responsibility, showing that profitability can coexist with ethical business practices. He aims to set a new standard for the vape industry, where user well-being and regulatory adherence are paramount.
X-VAPE is driven by Dee’s commitment to curbing the rise of unsafe, unregulated products. His mission is clear: offering a safer, more responsible alternative that sets new benchmarks for compliance and consumer protection. “The lack of safety in many vape products deeply troubled me,” Dee says. “The health risks posed by non-compliant vapes shocked and angered me.” Through X-VAPE, he seeks not only to meet legal requirements but to redefine responsibility in a sector notorious for shortcuts and negligence. “You can be profitable while still being responsible,” Dee asserts, signaling a shift in how business in the vape industry can be conducted.
X-VAPE distinguishes itself through strict adherence to regulations set by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and Republic Act No. 11900, the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act. X-VAPE’s rigorous testing and commitment to quality make it a standout in a market flooded with uncertified products. By prioritizing product integrity and transparency, Dee positions X-VAPE as a leader in a competitive landscape, challenging the industry to raise its standards.
Reflecting on his transition from food and beverage to the vape industry, Dee explains that this move was not just a business decision but a response to urgent issues within the vape sector. “The industry is filled with problems like illegal trade, non-compliant products, and serious health risks to consumers,” he notes. Dee’s entry into the market is driven by a desire for social responsibility as much as entrepreneurial ambition, aiming to make a positive impact on the industry.
Dee recognizes the vape industry’s current crisis of trust. "Consumers are wary, dealers are struggling, and brands operating within the law face undue pressure," he says. To address these challenges, Dee has dedicated himself to understanding the complexities of the industry, from tobacco chemistry to global health policies and regulatory frameworks. This knowledge, combined with his global perspective, allows him to position X-VAPE as a trusted brand for both consumers and regulators.
A key aspect of X-VAPE’s identity is its unwavering commitment to transparency. Dee stresses that consumers deserve to know exactly what they are buying. X-VAPE ensures this through meticulous packaging that complies with BIR and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) guidelines. The brand also avoids marketing to minors, underscoring its ethical stance in an industry often criticized for targeting younger audiences. X-VAPE products, designed by top international talent, offer a premium experience without compromising on safety.
Looking ahead, Dee’s ambitions for X-VAPE are bold. “I want X-VAPE to be one of the most competitive vape brands, not only in the Philippines but globally,” he says. Drawing inspiration from visionaries like Steve Jobs, Dee believes innovation is key to the industry's evolution. He sees a growing demand for safer, high-quality vape products, and he is confident that the Philippine market is on the verge of becoming a major hub for growth in Southeast Asia.
For Eric Dee, X-VAPE is more than just a business, it is a movement toward a more responsible, transparent, and sustainable future for the vape industry.
Government Warning: Vaping products are harmful and contain nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. These are for use only by adults and are not recommended for use by nonsmokers.
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