Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Vapor Entrepreneurs Association (APVI) has said that it will ensure alternative tobacco products are only sold to adults, and not minors, non-smokers, or pregnant and lactating women.This was one of the three commitments declared by APVI and the Indonesian Vapers Association (AVI) while announcing the Tar & Cigarette Smoke-Free Movement at the Asia-Pacific Harm Reduction Forum (APHRF) 2024 in Jakarta earlier this month.
"We will ensure that all of our association members comply with the applicable rules and regulations related to the product sale," APVI secretary general Garindra Kartasmita said in a statement released here on Tuesday.
He added that APVI, as an association of vapor business actors, will also ensure the quality of the products distributed to consumers. That is the second commitment of the declaration, he informed.
The marketing of alternative tobacco products will go through strict quality controls to meet safety standards as a form of consumer protection, he added.
"We will also strive to improve product quality through continuous innovation and research," he continued.
The third commitment, namely education and information, was conveyed by the chairperson of AVI, Johan Sumantri.
Sumantri said that his side and APVI will jointly provide appropriate and accurate education and information to the public regarding the use of alternative tobacco products.
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AVI is ready to collaborate with other relevant stakeholders in educating and disseminating information about alternative tobacco products, he added.
"The information shared is based on scientific evidence and the latest research. We believe that a well-educated public will be able to make wiser decisions regarding the use of products," he explained.
The declaration of the commitment by the associations was aimed at encouraging adult smokers to switch to alternative tobacco products, such as electronic cigarettes, vapes, and other heated tobacco products.
