Central Java officials campaign against illegal cigarette circulation

Authorities in Central Java are intensifying efforts to combat the circulation of illegal cigarettes. Johan Hadiyanto, Head of the Bureau of Economy for the Central Java Provincial Secretariat, urged the public in Pemalang to avoid purchasing illegal products to reduce their distribution, particularly ahead of village head elections.

Officials noted that cigarette excise and taxes are vital contributors to both state and regional revenues. Illegal products, which often lack proper excise stamps or use counterfeit ones, cause significant financial losses to the government. The local communications department is focusing on educating the community about the characteristics of illegal cigarettes and the legal sanctions for violators.