Bangladesh Toughens Tobacco Control Law, Bans Smoking in Public Places

New Amendment Raises Minimum Age for Tobacco Purchase to 21

Government Aims to Reduce Tobacco-Related Deaths and Improve Public Health

In a significant step towards reducing tobacco-related deaths and improving public health, the Bangladesh government has amended the Tobacco Control Act of 2005. The amendment, which came into effect on March 30, 2023, introduces several new measures to curb tobacco use and protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.

One of the most significant changes brought about by the amendment is the ban on smoking in all public places. This includes both indoor and outdoor areas, such as restaurants, bars, offices, shopping malls, and public transportation. The ban also extends to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and places of worship.

The amendment also raises the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21 years. This aligns Bangladesh with best practices in tobacco control worldwide and aims to prevent young people from starting to smoke.

In addition to these measures, the amendment also strengthens the existing ban on tobacco advertising and promotion. The new law prohibits all forms of tobacco advertising, including print, broadcast, and online media. It also bans the use of tobacco brand logos on clothing, accessories, and other items.

The government's decision to toughen the Tobacco Control Law is based on the overwhelming evidence of the harmful effects of tobacco use. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year, including 1.2 million in Bangladesh.

The government hopes that the new amendment will help to reduce tobacco-related deaths and improve the health of the Bangladeshi population. The amendment is in line with the country's commitment to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), a global treaty aimed at reducing tobacco use worldwide.