Indonesia is taking steps to strengthen its control over tobacco and nicotine products, but faces significant challenges from industry influence. Recent actions by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) aim to safeguard public health by limiting interactions with the tobacco industry, but broader implementation of tobacco control measures remains hampered by opposition.
Fresh Regulations Aim to Curb Industry Influence
Indonesia ranks among the top 10 countries most influenced by the tobacco industry, according to the Global Tobacco Industry Interference Index 2025. Despite enacting Law No. 17 of 2023 and Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024 to bolster tobacco control, progress is slowed by industry interference. A proposed regulation requiring 50% pictorial health warnings on tobacco and nicotine packaging is currently stalled.
With support from the World Health Organization (WHO), BPOM developed a code of conduct to address this interference. A workshop held on December 11, 2024, introduced the issue to 50 BPOM officials. Following extensive consultations throughout 2025, BPOM issued Circular No. 8 of 2025, establishing a system for reporting violations and applying sanctions under the agency’s code of ethics.
Expanding BPOM’s Role
Nova Emelda, BPOM’s Director of Safety, Quality and Export–Import of Drugs, Narcotic, Psychotropic, Precursor and Addictive Substance Control, stated that clear guidelines are crucial for BPOM officials given the agency’s expanding role in monitoring emerging nicotine products and electronic cigarettes. Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024 empowers BPOM to oversee compliance with packaging, labeling, nicotine and tar thresholds, and bans on harmful additives.
WHO plans to continue supporting BPOM’s implementation of the new regulation and advocate for similar measures in other government agencies. The organization aims to raise awareness and protect health policies from tobacco industry interference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BPOM’s new role regarding tobacco products?
Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024 expands BPOM’s mandate to monitor emerging nicotine products and electronic cigarettes, and empowers the agency to oversee compliance with packaging, labeling, nicotine and tar thresholds, and bans on harmful additives in tobacco and nicotine products.
What steps has BPOM taken to prevent industry interference?
BPOM, with WHO support, developed a code of conduct and issued Circular No. 8 of 2025, which prohibits unnecessary interaction between BPOM staff and the tobacco industry. A whistleblowing system is in place for reporting violations.
Are tobacco taxes increasing in Indonesia?
Tobacco taxes have not risen in Indonesia for two years, with companies citing potential impacts on jobs and tobacco farmers’ livelihoods.
Will these new regulations be enough to overcome the influence of the tobacco industry in Indonesia, or will further measures be needed to protect public health?
