Comprehensive New Legislative Preparations for Tobacco Control in Turkey
Prepared under the leadership of the Ministry of Health and planned to be submitted to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) in October, the new bill includes a tobacco ban for those born after 2015, the termination of production by 2040, and expanded indoor smoking restrictions.
Radical restrictions and bans are included in the new bill prepared by the Ministry of Health against the increase in tobacco use rates and lung cancer cases in Turkey.
Global and National Tobacco Overview
It is reported that 1.2 billion people worldwide smoke and approximately 7 million people lose their lives each year due to tobacco-related causes. It is stated that Turkey has taken significant steps after becoming a party to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in 2003, but in recent years, tobacco use rates have increased again, especially among women and young people.
Increase in Sales and Usage Figures
It is stated that cigarette sales in Turkey have increased significantly in recent years, with sales rising from approximately 91,000 tons and 4.5 billion packs in 2012 to 160,000 tons and 8 billion packs in 2025. It is noted that the smoking rate among women has increased by around 40-50% in the last 10-15 years, and this rate exceeds 90% among women in the 15-24 age group.
Tobacco Ban for Those Born After 2015
According to the draft regulation aiming to protect children and young people, the use, smoking, and sale of tobacco products are completely prohibited for life for individuals born after January 1, 2015. This provision aims to completely protect future generations from tobacco addiction.
Radical Ban on Production by 2040
As one of the most striking provisions of the prepared bill, the production and sale of tobacco products within the borders of Turkey are projected to be radically banned starting from the year 2040.
Lung Cancer and Health Tax
It is stated that approximately 35,000 people in Turkey lose their lives to lung cancer every year due to cigarette use. Revenues to be obtained through the "health tax" application for cigarette packs included in the draft are planned to be transferred to preventive and developmental health services.
Expanded Area Limitations and Packaging Regulations
Within the scope of the new regulations, smoking will be banned in both open and closed areas of restaurants, while private areas that are not visible from the outside will be created in parks, gardens, and public buildings. Furthermore, it is stated that a standard packaging system will be adopted to eliminate thin and 'slim' cigarettes, and access to these products by those under 18 will be prevented through an identity verification system.