Tk 5,000 fine for selling cigarettes near schools, hospitals

The President has promulgated the 'Smoking and Tobacco Products (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025', introducing stricter measures on the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products near sensitive public spaces. 

The ordinance, issued on Tuesday night, December 30, by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Law Ministry, amends the existing Smoking and Tobacco Products (Control) Act of 2005 to enhance public health protections.

Under the new ordinance, no individual shall sell or facilitate the sale of tobacco or tobacco products within 100 meters of educational institutions, hospitals, clinics, sports venues, and children's parks. The law further empowers the government or local government bodies to extend this boundary through general or special orders as deemed necessary.

Regarding penalties, the ordinance stipulates that any violation of this provision will attract a maximum fine of Tk 5,000. In cases of repeated or second-time offenses, the fine may be imposed at double the initial rate. A spokesperson for the Law Ministry explained that the amendment seeks to curb the accessibility of tobacco products in areas frequented by minors and vulnerable populations, stating, "This ordinance is intended to reinforce public health safeguards and ensure compliance with national tobacco control standards."