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In commemoration of National Vape Day on Monday, July 18, 2022, several associations engaged in the electric cigarette industry signed a Pact of Integrity as a form of commitment to more responsible alternative tobacco product businesses.

Aryo Andrianto, as the General Chairman of APVI (Indonesian Personal Vaporizer Association), stated that signing the Pact of Integrity is one of the association's efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the vape industry.

"We believe that the vape industry will continue to grow, providing positive and sustainable benefits for the community and the country," said Aryo.

The Pact of Integrity was signed by the leaders of the associations, including Aryo Andrianto as Chairman of APVI, Daniel B. Purwanto as Chairman of APEI (Indonesian E-Liquid Producers Association), Johan Sumantri as Chairman of the Indonesian Vapers Association (AVI), and Roy Lefrans as Chairman of the Indonesian Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Entrepreneurs Alliance (APPNINDO).

The Pact of Integrity covers three points. First, not selling products to individuals under 18 years of age; second, preventing the illegal sale of products; and third, supporting the government in issuing fact-based regulations for alternative tobacco products, and involving stakeholders in the process.

Aryo explained that alternative tobacco products, electric cigarettes, and other heated tobacco products are intended for adult consumers aged 18 and above. All involved associations are expected not to sell these products to children, non-smokers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.

He hopes that this agreed-upon commitment can be well implemented by all members of each association.

"All associations are obligated to educate the public so that electric cigarettes are used appropriately, meaning they are only intended for adult users. By consistently and continuously educating, we believe we will narrow the scope of misuse," said Aryo.

APVI Public Relations Chairman, Rhomedal Aquino, added that his party will continue to socialize and campaign against the sale of electric cigarettes to children under 18. This will be implemented through a strategy of placing 18+ posters and stickers in vape shops across Indonesia under APVI's umbrella.

Not only that, but store employees will also be educated to verify the age of consumers before transactions and to firmly refuse buyers who do not meet the criteria. APVI members throughout Indonesia also have a role to actively communicate this commitment to consumers.

"We hope that other associations will also actively socialize and campaign to prevent this product from being misused by those who do not meet the criteria. We will issue warnings if any of our members violate this joint agreement," said Rhomedal.

Johan Sumantri, as Chairman of AVI, stated that he would consistently show appreciation for associations that have socialized and campaigned against sales to minors.

"We are ready to collaborate with business actors and other stakeholders in promoting the campaign against the use of this product by children under 18," said Johan.

Aryo hopes that through the jointly signed Pact of Integrity, all associations will also commit to not selling illegal products, as this would violate Law Number 8 of 1999 concerning consumer protection.

Source: TribunNews