Hong Kong’s Legislative Council has passed a comprehensive tobacco control bill that will phase in a ban on flavored cigarettes and prohibit the public possession and use of e-cigarettes. The new law aims to further reduce the city’s smoking rate, which stood at 9.1% in 2023.
Starting in the second quarter of 2027, the sale of non-menthol flavored cigarettes and flavored shisha (water pipe tobacco) will be banned, with a ban on menthol flavors planned for a later stage. Violators face penalties of up to HK$50,000 (approx. US$6,400) and six months’ imprisonment.
From January 2026, smoking while queuing in public will be prohibited, and no-smoking zones will be established within three meters of school and hospital entrances, with a HK$3,000 fine for infractions. Crucially, from April 30, 2026, the public possession and use of e-cigarettes will be banned. The bill also includes tougher penalties for tobacco smuggling and a duty stamp system for imported cigarettes.
The bill passed with a 74-1 vote, with 7 abstentions. Opponents voiced concerns that the flavor ban could push smokers to the illicit market. The government aims to lower the smoking rate to 7.8% by the end of 2025.
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