Indonesia's plain packaging rule for e-cigarettes sparks controversy

Oct.25.2024
 Indonesia's plain packaging rule for e-cigarettes sparks controversy
The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce (Kadin) argues that implementing plain packaging could threaten the viability of the e-cigarette industry, increase illegal tobacco products and reduce government tax revenues. Kadin is urging the Ministry of Health to reconsider or withdraw the proposal.

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) believes that the implementation of regulations requiring the sale of unbranded e-cigarettes could make it even more difficult for the industry to survive during the current economic downturn, according to a report by Viva on 24 October.

 

Diana Dewi, chairman of the Jakarta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), said the chamber was urging the Ministry of Health to reconsider or even cancel the proposed Tobacco and E-cigarette Product Safety Regulation Bill (RPMK). She pointed out that this regulation would be highly detrimental to the tobacco and e-cigarette industry and stakeholders.

 

Diana suggested that the Ministry of Health should first hold thorough discussions with the business community, financially interested parties, observers, trade unions and other relevant stakeholders. She believes that if this regulation is vigorously enforced, illegal tobacco and e-cigarette products may become more prevalent in the market as manufacturers will not be able to display brand identifiers.

 

In such a scenario, consumers may switch to illegal products, making government regulation more difficult and potentially leading to a significant reduction in national tax revenues.
 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Around 58,000 counterfeit vapes and tobacco seized from UK 's Hampshire streets over the past year
Around 58,000 counterfeit vapes and tobacco seized from UK 's Hampshire streets over the past year
UK's Hampshire Trading Standards says around 58,000 counterfeit vapes and tobacco products have been seized from Hampshire over the last year. Richard Strawson, Hampshire’s Head of Trading Standards, said officers often find vape products disguised under fake branding.
Jan.05 by 2FIRSTS.ai
South Korea’s President Raises Safety Concerns Over Nicotine Alternatives at Cabinet Meeting
South Korea’s President Raises Safety Concerns Over Nicotine Alternatives at Cabinet Meeting
South Korea’s Cabinet has approved an amendment to the Tobacco Business Act that legally classifies liquid e-cigarettes as tobacco products. Under the revision, any product containing tobacco or nicotine will fall under tobacco regulation, explicitly including synthetic nicotine vapes. The move addresses long-standing regulatory and taxation gaps.
Dec.16 by 2FIRSTS.ai
JT launches half-price Ploom AURA promotion across online and offline channels
JT launches half-price Ploom AURA promotion across online and offline channels
Japan Tobacco (JT) has announced a limited-time promotion on selected standard colors of its heated tobacco device Ploom AURA, running from 8 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. During the campaign, the starter kit price will be cut from 2,980 yen (approximately US$19.20) to 1,480 yen (around US$9.53).
Dec.05 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Costa Rica Ruling Party Lawmaker Proposes Vape Ban as Experts Warn of Black Market Risks
Costa Rica Ruling Party Lawmaker Proposes Vape Ban as Experts Warn of Black Market Risks
A lawmaker from Costa Rica’s ruling party has introduced a bill to completely ban e-cigarettes and related products, covering their import, sale, use, and manufacturing, citing rising youth use and associated health risks. The proposal would repeal the current regulatory law and has raised concerns that a full ban, combined with weak enforcement, could fuel a black market.
Dec.03 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Wisconsin Lawmakers Revive Bill to Raise Legal Age for Tobacco and Vaping Purchases to 21
Wisconsin Lawmakers Revive Bill to Raise Legal Age for Tobacco and Vaping Purchases to 21
Wisconsin Senate Bill 524 (SB 524) has been reintroduced to raise the legal purchasing age for tobacco and electronic nicotine products from 18 to 21, aiming to eliminate the gap between state law and the federal “Tobacco 21” standard. Some retailers in Madison have already voluntarily adopted the 21-year age limit, while the American Lung Association is urging swift legislative action.
Dec.04 by 2FIRSTS.ai
USITC Issues Final Ruling in 337-TA-1392 Investigation, Imposes Limited Exclusion Order and Cease and Desist Orders
USITC Issues Final Ruling in 337-TA-1392 Investigation, Imposes Limited Exclusion Order and Cease and Desist Orders
USITC issues final ruling on oil vaporizing devices, components violating tariff law, with limited exclusion order and cease-and-desist orders.
Jan.21 by 2FIRSTS.ai