Indonesia Escalates Vape Surveillance to Combat Drug-Laced E-Liquids
The Indonesian National Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) is taking control of nationwide vape distribution to combat a growing crisis of drug-laced e-cigarettes. Partnering with the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), this escalated surveillance utilizes the 2023 health omnibus law to establish strict technical rules and sanctions for the vaping market.
The crackdown follows BNN’s discovery of liquid narcotics circulating in the market. The findings prompted BNN head Suyudi Ario Seto to recently suggest that a total ban on e-cigarettes is the only way to prevent drug-laced liquids from spreading.
However, BPOM chief Taruna Ikrar advocates for a more measured, evidence-based approach. Rather than implementing a blanket ban, BPOM plans to rely on scientific assessments to determine exactly which products pose severe health risks and must be barred from the country.
Both agencies agree that the primary threat stems from the black market, as drug-laced liquids are mainly discovered in illegal vapes lacking official excise stamps. Taruna emphasized the need to strictly regulate these illicit products without imposing uneven restrictions on the entire industry.
The regulatory push addresses a significant consumer base in the country. According to a 2021 survey by the Health Ministry and the World Health Organization:
- 11.9% of Indonesian adults have used a vape.
- 8.8% of adults aged 25-44 are daily users who have vaped for over two years.
- Read more: Indonesia to Implement Strict Vape Regulations and 21+ Age Limit by July 2026
- News reference: Indonesia to Step Up Surveillance of Vape
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