THE IMPORTANCE OF IMPLEMENTING REGULATIONS REGARDING THE RESTRICTION OF CIRCULATION AND USE OF VAPE IN INDONESIA

The widespread use of electronic cigarettes or vapes in Indonesia, particularly among minors, has raised concerns regarding public health and the adequacy of the existing legal framework. Although Indonesia has adopted various laws and regulations concerning health, addictive substances, tobacco products, and child protection, the regulation of vape circulation and use remains fragmented. This study aims to examine the legal framework governing the circulation and use of vape devices in Indonesia and to assess the legal protection afforded to minors against the risks associated with vaping. This study employs normative juridical or doctrinal legal research using statutory, doctrical, and comparative approaches. The analysis is based on primary and secondary legal materials, including legislation, legal doctrines, and relevant literature. The results show that Indonesia has established several legal instruments that provide a basis for regulating electronic cigarettes and protecting public health and minors. However, the existing framework does not yet provide a comprehensive and harmonized regulation specifically addressing vape circulation and use, particularly with regard to vape-free areas, age restrictions, responsibilities, and enforcement mechanisms. The fragmented nature of the existing regulations creates legal gaps that may undermine the effective protection of minors and public health. Therefore, legal reform and harmonization are necessary to establish a clearer and more integrated regulatory framework governing the circulation and use of vapes in Indonesia.