Chairman of the Indonesian Tobacco Community Alliance (AMTI), I Ketut Budhyman Mudhara, emphasized the significant contribution of the tobacco industry, highlighting its crucial role in the national economy. He noted that few industries in Indonesia contribute as substantially, with the sector involving around six million people, including 2.5 million tobacco farmers, 1.5 million clove farmers, as well as workers and traders. However, he expressed concerns over restrictive regulations that could negatively impact employment and farmer productivity, citing policies such as Government Regulation No. 28/2024, the Draft Minister of Health Regulation, and regional smoke-free area policies.  

Budhyman also criticized the push for plain cigarette packaging, arguing that Indonesia should not align its policies with the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), which the country has not ratified. He warned against foreign influence in tobacco regulations, stressing that Indonesia’s tobacco ecosystem is unique and deeply rooted in local culture and livelihoods. He called for fair and balanced government policies that support the industry's growth rather than hinder it. Ensuring the sustainability of the tobacco sector, he argued, is vital for protecting farmers, workers, and Indonesia’s economic stability.

Source:
https://news.majalahhortus.com/sumbangan-industri-rokok-capai-rp-2169-triliun/