Coordinating Minister for Human Development Opens Public Discussion on Nicotine and Tar Limits
Jakarta — Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Pratikno, has launched a public consultation on a study regarding maximum limits for nicotine and tar content, aiming to gather input from various stakeholders on health aspects and industry sustainability.
“I understand the concerns of workers and industry players. However, this discussion and public consultation on nicotine and tar limits is more focused on health and human development,” Pratikno said in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Pratikno recounted his childhood, which was closely linked to the lives of tobacco farmers, enabling him to understand the concerns of workers in an industry that employs a substantial workforce. However, he acknowledged that parents are also concerned about their children’s health.
“Therefore, we also need to listen to studies from academics and health activists based on accurate experience,” he said.
The government continues to gather aspirations, concerns, and hopes from various stakeholders regarding these nicotine and tar limits.
“We understand that there are many differing perspectives and concerns among tobacco farmers about the high expectations placed on tobacco,” he explained.
Under Government Regulation (PP) No. 28 of 2024 on Risk-Based Business Licensing Implementation, Article 431 stipulates that the determination of maximum nicotine and tar limits is the responsibility of the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture.
Sukadiono, Deputy of Health Quality Improvement Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry, explained that his office continues to receive input from academics, industry players, entrepreneurs, and all segments of society regarding the nicotine and tar limits.
“The determination or final stage is at ministerial level based on the Coordinating Ministry regulation. The maximum nicotine and tar limits will be determined through ministerial-level coordination meetings. We have until 31 March 2026 to receive input from various parties,” he said.