Regulations for the Tobacco Industry Should Consider All Aspirations
Indonesian House of Representatives member, Willy Aditya, emphasized that tobacco industry regulations should embrace all stakeholder aspirations, given that tobacco excise taxes remain a crucial contributor to Indonesia’s national revenue.
“We cannot make regulations that disregard various interests; we need to consider every perspective,” Willy stated on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.
The NasDem Party politician noted the importance of inclusivity, especially as current tobacco industry policies often appear biased. He believes that inclusive regulations involving all stakeholders would lead to a more balanced approach, preventing harm to vulnerable sectors.
Willy highlighted the substantial economic contribution of the tobacco excise, which brings in 213 trillion IDR, far outpacing other industries such as pharmaceuticals. He pointed out that Indonesia should learn from other nations in managing strategic resources wisely.
Willy cautioned that regulations failing to address the social and economic realities surrounding **tobacco farming would mainly hurt tobacco farmers and industry workers. “Neglecting them risks social resistance and widespread hardship,” he warned.
The representative concluded by inviting all stakeholders to participate in constructive dialogue to ensure fair and beneficial policies for all, underscoring that this issue is about finding the best solution for Indonesia as a whole.
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