Vapes Under Scrutiny: Indonesia Proposes Ban Amid Drug Concerns
Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency proposes a vape ban after finding illegal drugs in vape liquids, sparking debate over public health and economic impacts.Summary
Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has proposed a ban on vaporizers, to be included in the 2026 narcotics and psychotropics Bill, following laboratory tests that revealed the presence of illicit drugs in vape liquids. BNN’s central laboratory tested 341 samples, finding synthetic cannabinoids in 11, etomidate in 23, and methamphetamine in one. This discovery has led BNN to argue that vaporizers are increasingly used for drug consumption and that a ban would reduce drug circulation and misuse. The proposal has garnered support from public health experts, like Mouhammad Bigwanto of the Indonesian Health Policy Chamber, who believe it simplifies enforcement. However, vape associations and small-business groups have voiced concerns about the potential economic impact on livelihoods, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises. Policymakers are now weighing the benefits of an outright ban against regulated approaches that target criminal supply chains while protecting legal businesses, with Commission III member Abdullah emphasizing the need for careful review of economic impacts and strengthened anti-drug measures.
(Source：Batam News Asia)
