Generational tobacco ban to be implemented for those born 2007 onwards

The cabinet has reached a decision on Sunday to implement a generational tobacco ban for those born on or after January 1, 2007.

Under this ban, sale, purchase and use of tobacco for those under this age will be prohibited.

With the cabinet deciding to allocate a period of six months for enforcement authorities to revise existing regulations following the amendment of the law, the ban will come into effect on November 1 this year.

The cabinet also instructed the Ministry of Finance and Planning to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to facilitate access to tobacco cessation services.

Prior to reaching this decision, the President conducted a public poll on the matter. The highest percentage of poll participants opted for the generational ban to be applied to those born 2000 onwards, however the cabinet decided on the year 2007.

December 15 last year also saw the ban of vapes in the country. There are hefty fines outlined for use and sale of vapes in the country.