The issue of a ban on clove cigarettes is still lingering. In an article on legislation that would give the FDA authority to regulate tobacco, the NY Times notes:
The bill would ban candy, fruit and spice-flavored cigarettes, including clove cigarettes, but menthol cigarettes would be exempt from the ban. Menthol cigarettes make up 28 percent of the United States cigarette market.
Indonesia, which exports a clove-flavored cigarette called kretek, has objected to the favorable treatment of menthol over other flavorings, Mr. Leavitt said. “The government of Indonesia has repeatedly objected to the bill on the ground that this disparate treatment is unjustified and incompatible with W.T.O. trade rules,” Mr. Leavitt wrote, in reference to the World Trade Organization.
But the article also says that a veto is likely, so Indonesia may not need to worry just yet.
