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Indonesian vaping industry regulatory and safety controversy

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-10-19 04:38 UTC → 2026-10-25 09:27 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The vaping industry in Indonesia is facing increasing scrutiny regarding health and safety concerns. Initially, three major industry associations—APVI, PPEI, and Arvindo—demanded transparency from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) regarding research linking e-cigarettes to a 100 percent increased risk of diabetes and a 92 percent increased risk of lung disorders. The associations questioned the methodology of these claims, citing previous studies that suggested toxin levels in vapes were lower than in conventional cigarettes. Following these health concerns, the situation escalated to include criminal and religious considerations. Indonesian National Police Chief General Suyudi Ario Seto requested that the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) issue a fatwa declaring vapes ‘haram’ (forbidden). General Suyudi stated that drug trafficking has transitioned from solid to liquid forms, including liquid methamphetamine and cannabis extracts, making it difficult for law enforcement and the National Narcotics Board (BNN) to distinguish between legal products and narcotics. He described this smuggling as a ‘covert war’ by international networks. In response to the police chief’s request, the MUI Head of Fatwa, KH Hasrorun Niam Sholeh, stated the council would follow up through in-depth discussions. This push has gained political momentum, with Indonesian legislators calling for the fatwa. Ahmad Sahroni, Vice Chairman of Commission III of the House of Representatives (DPR), argued that social harm outweighs economic impact, suggesting authorities develop an exit strategy for the industry. Additionally, Yahya Zaini, Vice Chairman of Commission IX of the DPR, urged the police to investigate manufacturers using illegal substances and called on the Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) to tighten oversight. Medical experts have further intensified the debate. Professor Tjandra Yoga Aditama, Chairman of the Honor Council of the Indonesian Lung Physicians Association (PDPI), warned that vaping can lead to e-cigarette or vaping associated lung injury (EVALI).

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