Finance Minister Purbaya has met with illegal cigarette entrepreneurs

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has admitted to meeting with several illegal cigarette entrepreneurs to discuss plans for a transition into the legal ecosystem.

Speaking to journalists at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta on Wednesday, Purbaya explained that during the meeting, he listened to feedback from the illegal cigarette producers, including their concerns and the needs that the government could facilitate.

“I have met some of them, though I forget the exact date. I asked them what their concerns were and what they wanted,” said Pumbaya.

He further explained the plan to implement a new layer within the structure of the tobacco excise tax (CHT), or cigarette tax, in order to draw illegal cigarette circulation into the legal ecosystem.

However, Purbaya stated that if they refuse to comply with the regulations that will be established, the government will impose strict sanctions.

“I will present it like this: I will try to open a new layer for cigarette excise. You enter that layer and follow the opportunities provided by the government. After that, if you still do not join, we will eradicate it completely. So, it is a fair game,” he added.

Regarding the plan to implement the new excise layer, Purbaya mentioned that he will discuss it with the House of Representatives (DPR) once the discussions regarding the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN) are completed.