Aiming to Protect Public Health
Henry Tong, the chairman of the Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health, has expressed strong support for the government’s proposed anti-smoking measures, including a ban on alternative smoking products. He believes these actions are crucial for protecting public health, especially among young people.
Tong explained that research shows young people who use e-cigarettes are more likely to become lifelong smokers. He emphasized that a large percentage of smokers who develop serious health issues such as cancer, heart disease, or strokes are treated by the Hong Kong public health system. This adds significant pressure to the system, making preventive measures even more important.
Stricter Penalties for Smuggling Cigarettes
The Hong Kong government is also planning to introduce harsher penalties for those caught smuggling cigarettes. Under the new rules, people caught bringing in more than the allowed 19 undeclared cigarettes will face a fine of HK$5,000, up from the current fine of HK$2,000.
The new measure will take effect immediately after the amendment bill is gazetted. Additionally, those caught smuggling illicit cigarettes will face a fine of up to HK$2 million—double the current penalty—and could face a prison sentence up to 12 years, five years longer than the current maximum sentence.
Tong believes these measures will help reduce the number of illicit cigarettes entering the market.
Uniform Packaging to Discourage Smoking
Another key proposal involves standardizing cigarette packaging. Tong supports this idea, noting that it could help prevent people who have quit smoking from relapsing. He pointed out that current packaging designs, often arranged in an attractive and promotional way, may encourage people to start smoking or relapse. By making the packaging uniform and less appealing, the government hopes to reduce these temptations.
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