Government aims to standardize packaging to reduce brand appeal; debates intensify over impacts.

The Indonesian government is drafting a regulation mandating plain packaging for tobacco products, sparking debates among businesses, legal experts, and consumer advocates. The initiative, part of Government Regulation (PP) No. 28/2024, aims to reduce the allure of cigarette branding and strengthen public health efforts.

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is developing a regulation under PP No. 28/2024 that will require all tobacco products to use plain packaging without branding. This move is designed to reduce smoking rates and limit the appeal of tobacco products. However, the proposal has faced criticism from businesses and legal experts concerned about enforcement and economic impacts.

Details of the Proposed Regulation

The regulation requires all tobacco manufacturers and importers to adopt plain packaging with standardized designs and text, removing brand identifiers. This is outlined in Article 435 of the new policy.

Ali Ridho, a legal expert from Universitas Trisakti, cautions that without consistent enforcement, the rule may unintentionally fuel the illegal cigarette trade. He highlights the need for effective law enforcement to achieve the policy’s goals.

Ridho also suggests combining legal measures with public education to discourage smoking. He believes education is integral to enforcement, emphasizing awareness of the law alongside punitive measures.

Risks to Business Competition

Professor Kholil of Universitas Sahid Jakarta warns that plain packaging could lead to unfair competition, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish between high-quality and subpar products. He also predicts challenges for Indonesia’s Competition Commission (KPPU) in regulating the market.

Read More: Batam Customs Seize 184,000 Illegal Cigarettes Bound for Riau

Critics argue that the regulation could harm the tobacco industry, a significant contributor to Indonesia’s economy. Meanwhile, consumers may face difficulties in identifying trusted brands, potentially compromising product quality and safety.

Indonesia’s proposed plain packaging rule reflects a growing global trend to prioritize public health over branding in the tobacco industry. While the initiative aims to curb smoking rates, its success depends on robust enforcement and careful consideration of economic impacts.

Sources: Batam News, CNBC Indonesia (2025)

Keywords: Indonesia Smoking Regulation, Plain Packaging Plan, Curbing Tobacco Use