Will Indonesia, a Key Tobacco Control Outlier, Keep Vaping Legal?
November 25, 2024 by filtermag.org
Will Indonesia, a Key Tobacco Control Outlier, Keep Vaping Legal?
Indonesia, known for its high smoking rate, approved vaping as a tobacco alternative in 2018. With a vast population of 280 million, the country faces critical tobacco harm issues and a high smoking rate of 34.5% among adults. Despite calls for a vape ban, the government opted for regulation. Supporters argue for regulation as a balanced approach that generates tax revenue, promotes smoking cessation, and protects human rights. Vape bans in Southeast Asia, including in ASEAN countries, have resulted in growing illicit markets. Emphasizing the importance of regional coordination and tailored regulations to local norms, a shift towards promoting safer alternatives to tobacco is crucial for Indonesia's public health concerns.
32.60% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 64.5 million current smokers in Indonesia 62.70% of men are current smokers but only 2.50% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
