The government of Cape Verde has recently passed legislation to ban the advertising of tobacco and to introduce smoking bans in specific places. This, of course, is in line with many countries around the world. The advertising ban will include all forms whether direct, indirect, subliminal or sponsorship. Along with that the promotion of tobacco companies and brands is also going to be prohibited. The legislation will also require a health warning and graphic pictures on every pack. The ban on the sale of tobacco products to people under 18 is strengthened in this new law. This statute is expected to come into force in October 2022.
The smoking ban will include a complete ban in open spaces less than three metres from enclosed public and private spaces. It will also include a ban on smoking in bars, clubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres and museums. However, such venues will be able to create designated smoking areas. The ban also applies to all government owned institutions or companies etc., and will include a ban on electronic cigarettes.
In addition to the advertising and smoking bans, the new law will provide for the creation of advice centres for people wishing to give up smoking. These will be located within health centres. All of this comes in the wake of increased sales of tobacco products in 2021 for the first time in four years. However, sales were less than was the case in 2017.
[27 May 2022]
