Dhaka, October 24, 2024 – The interim government of Bangladesh is on the verge of introducing a stringent new tobacco control law aimed at curbing the use of harmful tobacco products across the country. The “Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) Ordinance, 2024” will be presented at the Advisory Council meeting on October 24. This ordinance introduces sweeping changes, including a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes, e-cigarettes, bidis, and other tobacco products.
This proposed legislation reflects the government’s intensified efforts to combat the public health crisis caused by tobacco consumption. Key features of the ordinance include:
- Licensing Requirements: Shopkeepers selling tobacco products must now obtain a license, with violators facing fines of up to Tk50,000.
- Restrictions on Tobacco Sales: Sales of tobacco products will be prohibited within 100 meters of schools, hospitals, sports venues, and children’s parks.
- Ban on Loose Cigarettes and E-Cigarettes: A fine of Tk5,000 will be imposed for selling loose cigarettes or e-cigarettes. Additional restrictions will apply to the sale of tobacco by mobile vendors and hawkers.
- Increased Fines for Public Smoking: Fines for smoking or using tobacco in public places will rise from Tk300 to Tk1,000.
The ordinance also extends existing restrictions, such as banning smoking in all types of restaurants, public eateries, and non-motorized vehicles, including rickshaws and vans. Additionally, all forms of advertising and promotion of electronic nicotine delivery systems will be prohibited, with strict penalties for violations.
These measures align with Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to reduce tobacco-related deaths and protect its youth from addiction. Health advocacy groups, including PROGGA, have hailed the proposed ordinance as a critical step toward preventing tobacco-related illnesses and deaths.
“Every year, 161,000 people die due to tobacco usage in Bangladesh. The approval of this ordinance will go a long way in reducing these tragic numbers,” said ABM Zubair, Executive Director of PROGGA.
However, the proposed law has faced opposition from tobacco companies. British American Tobacco Bangladesh and Japan Tobacco International have expressed concerns, calling certain provisions unrealistic and difficult to enforce. Despite these objections, the government remains committed to advancing this public health initiative.
If passed, the ordinance will mark a significant milestone in Bangladesh’s tobacco control policies, reinforcing its commitment to protecting public health and saving lives.
