New Legal Regulations Being Prepared within the Scope of Combating Tobacco Products

Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu announced the new bill prepared to combat tobacco products, stating that age verification with Turkish ID information will be implemented in cigarette sales, cigarette visibility will be reduced, and smoking areas in cafes and restaurants will be reorganized.

ID Application in Cigarette Sales

One of the main objectives of the new bill was determined as reducing the visibility of cigarettes and preventing sales to minors under the age of 18.

When the regulation is implemented, the ages of individuals wanting to buy cigarettes will be verified through Turkish ID information and inspections will be increased.

Increase in Tobacco Usage Rates

Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu stated that despite past successes, a recent resurgence in cigarette usage rates has been observed.

It was pointed out that smoking is one of the primary causes of diseases associated with approximately 60 percent of deaths in Turkey.

Smoking Cessation Services and Supports

The Ministry noted that there are over 1,700 smoking cessation clinics nationwide to assist citizens who want to quit smoking.

Support continues to be provided to those in the cessation process through mobile clinics, the ALO 171 hotline, and medications provided free of charge by the Ministry.

Regulation of Cafe and Restaurant Areas

Due to problems experienced in current practices, it is planned to re-evaluate smoking areas in cafes and restaurants.

With the new regulations, it is aimed to protect the rights of non-smoking citizens and bind the areas to clearer rules.