Anti-smoking law comes into effect

The law, with 5 chapters and 35 clauses, regulates measures aiming to reduce the demand for tobacco, control supply and prevent tobacco harm, said the ministry at a conference in Hanoi on April 23.

Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Thi Xuyen said the implementation of the law will focus on enforcing the smoking ban in agencies, government offices, schools, hospitals and a number of public places.

Regulating cigarette advertisement, promotion and funding will be another focus, she added. 

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Vietnam is one of 15 countries with the most smokers in the world. About half of all male adults (15 years old and above) in the country are smokers.

Earlier on January 25, 2013, the Prime Minister approved the national strategy to combat tobacco’s negative impact by 2020.