According to a report by JawaPos on May 9th, the Indonesian Retailers Association (Aprindo) and the National People's Market Association (Aparsi) held a forum and signed a memorandum of understanding. The Indonesian Cigarette Producers Association (Gaprindo) also participated in the event to discuss the latest government policies regarding the sale of tobacco products. These regulations are outlined in the Ministry of Health's policy bill (RPP) and serve as detailed implementations of health regulations.
The Indonesian Retailers Association (Aprindo) and the Indonesian Cigarette Producers Association (Gaprindo) have expressed their full support for these new policies, especially the regulations restricting the purchase of tobacco products to individuals over the age of 18.
However, Roy Nicholas Mandey, the president of the Indonesian Retailers Association, pointed out that some provisions in the new policy are causing great concern for retailers. He believes that overly strict sales restrictions could lead to inequality and discrimination within the industry, affecting the business security of merchants. He also stated explicitly that the Indonesian Retailers Association has not been invited by the government to participate in discussions on these regulations.
Similarly, Benny Wachyudi, the president of Gaprindo, also pointed out that the Indonesian Tobacco Industry Association was not invited to participate in the discussion process when formulating the new tobacco control law. He also stated that considering the tobacco industry provides a significant number of job opportunities for the country, this industry is protected by law, and new restrictions may cause greater challenges for the tobacco industry.
He added, "Therefore, regarding the new policy bill from the Health Department, we are still waiting for the government to make the best decision and are prepared to respond accordingly, as we have not been contacted by them yet. We hope the government will consider the interests of all parties, ensure the fairness of the law, and promote the healthy development of the industry when determining the new regulations.
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