The Advisory Council on Wednesday approved the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, aiming to further strengthen tobacco control measures and reduce tobacco-related deaths and diseases across the country.
The ordinance was proposed by the Health Services Division under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to reinforce the existing Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) Act, 2005, with a view to more effectively curbing tobacco consumption.
Officials said tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of cancer and other non-communicable diseases in Bangladesh. Every year, more than 130,000 people die prematurely due to tobacco-related illnesses, posing a major public health challenge and placing a heavy burden on the healthcare system.
The approval was given at a meeting of the Advisory Council. As part of the process to issue the ordinance, vetting by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division will be sought immediately, according to officials familiar with the decision.
One of the key features of the approved ordinance is a proposed ban on the use, production and marketing of emerging tobacco products, including e-cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and heated tobacco products (HTPs). These products have raised growing concerns globally, particularly due to their appeal among young people.
The ordinance also expands the definition of “tobacco products” to include nicotine pouches, bringing them under regulatory control for the first time.
In a major move to protect non-smokers, the ordinance prohibits the use of all tobacco products—not just smoking—in public places and public transport. At the same time, the provision for designated smoking areas will remain subject to specific government directives.
The scope and definitions of “public place” and “public transport” have been further expanded to ensure broader coverage and more effective enforcement.
Additionally, the ordinance bans all forms of tobacco advertising, promotion and display at points of sale, as well as advertisements through the internet or any other media.
Another significant provision increases the size of health warnings on tobacco product packaging from the existing 50 percent to 75 percent of the packet surface, with the aim of making health risks more visible and discouraging tobacco use.
Health officials expressed hope that the strengthened law would contribute significantly to reducing tobacco consumption and protecting public health.
AU/BP
