New Zealand Prepares to Become the First Country to Impose Tobacco Restrictions
The government of New Zealand has announced its intention to impose restrictions on the sale of tobacco to protect the new generation. By doing so, New Zealand is poised to become the first country globally to impose such restrictions on tobacco.
According to a report by Reuters, the government of New Zealand is set to implement restrictions on tobacco sales starting in July, with the strictest laws coming into effect for the sale of tobacco to children born after January 1, 2009.
Under the restrictions, the nicotine content in cigarettes will be reduced, and the number of tobacco retailers in the country will be reduced to 90 or fewer.
The government elected in October 2023 has confirmed that changes to the law will be made on an interim basis effective today (Tuesday), and the previous law will be repealed without seeking public opinion.
Deputy Health Minister Casey Costello stated that the coalition government is determined to reduce smoking but is adopting various legal measures to discourage this habit and minimize its harm.
Costello added, "I will soon seek Cabinet approval for measures that will increase supportive resources for quitting smoking and further tighten laws to keep young people away from tobacco."
Criticism had previously been leveled against the expected decision in New Zealand, expressing concerns about its impact on public health, particularly in major and Pacific populations where smoking rates are high.
On the other hand, researcher Janet Hoyt of Otago University had stated that the legislation was enacted despite comprehensive research evidence and opposition from the tobacco industry and will have negative effects on health.