MOH: Cigarette display ban phased out, deadline revised to Oct 1

THE Ministry of Health today announced that the ban on the open display initially set for April 1 will be phased out.

The completion of this process has been revised to Oct 1.

The MOH said it will continue working with retailers to ensure that enclosed cabinets are installed according to specifications, with compliance closely monitored over time.

"This process is expected to be fully completed by Oct 1," it said in a statement.

To ensure adherence to the regulations, the ministry said it has implemented a phased enforcement approach that is prudent, strategic, and effective.

"The enforcement plan is divided into immediate enforcement and phased enforcement," it said.

Among the provisions taking immediate effect since the enforcement of the Act was the ban on the sale of smoking products in the form of toys that appeal to children and teenagers.

"Educational enforcement" will be implemented gradually over a period of six to 12 months from Oct 1.

This will include the registration of smoking products, packaging and labelling regulations by product, and sales control at counters.

It was earlier reported that all premises must ensure that tobacco products are concealed from public view using appropriate coverings, as required under the Control of Tobacco Products for Public Health (Sales Control) Regulations 2024,

Under the Act, point-of-sale display of smoking products at eateries and retail stores is prohibited.

The Act, enforced on Oct 1, 2024, covers regulations on registration, sale, packaging, labelling, and prohibition of smoking in public places.

The MOH had announced in October last year that the proposed measure is set to take effect on April 1, 2025. – March 24, 202