INDONESIA
Anti-smoking groups in Indonesia have accused the tobacco industry of “veiled marketing” – promoting sales by giving retailers cash rewards, shopping vouchers, and even money.
Indonesia’s regulations restrict cigarette advertisements, including a ban on tobacco firms promoting their products while acting as a sponsor. However, many believe these laws are inconsistently enforced by regional authorities. The anti-smoking groups say that cigarette makers make the most of this, tying up with small retailers and rewarding them for in-store promotion of products.
The Indonesian Public Health Association (IAKMI) conducted a study, which reported that by mid-2016, Philip Morris-controlled PT Hanjaya Mandala Sampoerna Tbk, PT Gudang Garam Tbk, and Djarum Group had partnered with 513 shop-owners in four cities surrounding Jakarta.