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The Indonesian Personal Vaporizer Association (APVI) wants the government to protect the vape or e-cigarette industry from all negative campaigns and counterproductive policies. One such campaign is from the anti-smoking group Bloomberg Philanthropies, a foundation owned by New York City Mayor, Michael Bloomberg.

Aryo Andrianto, Chairman of APVI, stated that the repeated campaigns by Bloomberg Philanthropies and other tobacco control groups tend to be negative and only represent personal interests, not those of the community.

"That institution and those working with it, work for their own interests," said Aryo.

To prevent the widespread dissemination of misinformation about alternative tobacco products, Aryo suggested increasing domestic research that includes stakeholders. Additionally, APVI will be more active in disseminating accurate and accountable information, so that misinformation can be reduced among the public.

He also hopes that the public, especially adult smokers, can switch to alternative tobacco products and believe that these products are a better alternative.

"We focus on providing alternative tobacco product options because people have the right to choose," said Aryo.

Not only as an alternative product for smokers, Aryo explained that the alternative tobacco industry also contributes to advancing the Indonesian economy through excise tax revenue. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, the industry managed to survive and continue to grow.

"Post-pandemic, this industry has grown. The projected increase in excise contributions is 50 percent from last year," he stated.

Aryo claimed that the vape industry supports public health improvements and the national economy. Therefore, he hopes that the government can protect and guide the industry, such as by providing specific regulations that are appropriate and formed based on comprehensive research results.

"Our industry is present as a solution that will be useful for the lives of the community and the country, and of course, we hope for protection," said Aryo.

Source: Suara.com