Record fines on the agenda against tobacco use

Turkey is preparing to enter a new era with the most comprehensive cigarette and tobacco product regulation in recent years. The 41-article draft law, which the AK Party will submit to Parliament with the support of the Ministry of Health, has been developed in parallel with the European Union's vision with the goal of a "tobacco-free generation by 2040." The draft law contains radical measures regarding the use and sale of tobacco products.

One of the most striking points is that the sale of all tobacco products will be completely banned across Turkey starting January 1, 2040. Accordingly, not only cigarettes but also all products containing nicotine, such as electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco devices, will be removed from the market.

With the new regulation, which goes beyond the current ban, efforts are being made to minimize the effects of tobacco consumption on social life. Smoking in open areas at restaurants, cafes, and patisseries will be significantly restricted. In businesses, smoking will only be permitted in a special area covering 10 percent of the space, and food and beverage service or waiter service will strictly not be provided in these areas.

Significant changes are also on the way in sales processes: the era of cash payments will come to an end. Tobacco products will only be sold through electronic systems where identity and age verification can be performed.

The production and distribution of all nicotine products, including electronic cigarettes and their derivatives, will also be completely covered by the ban. Very heavy sanctions are envisaged for those who do not comply with these rules.

SEVERE SANCTIONS

Among the planned sanctions are fines ranging from 1 million TL to 5 million TL for individuals or businesses that continue to sell and produce tobacco in violation of the ban. This amount represents an approximately 100-fold increase compared to previous practices. If tobacco products are sold to children, a prison sentence of up to one year is foreseen.

Individuals who use tobacco products in designated prohibited areas face an administrative fine of 5 thousand TL. Businesses that do not comply with the rules will face fines starting at 50 thousand TL in the first instance, and will face gradual closure sanctions in case of recurrence.

When the prepared bill comes to the Parliament's agenda, a significant change is expected in the access to and consumption of tobacco products across the country. While these steps are being taken to protect public health, whether the regulation will be implemented and its effects in practice will be closely monitored.