Government Proposes Strict Ban on Herbal and Non-Herbal Tobacco Alternatives

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

The Bahraini government has proposed a new law that aims to completely ban the import of herbal and non-herbal tobacco alternatives. The proposed legislation, which is currently under review at the parliement, seeks to address concerns about the potential health and environmental risks associated with these products.

The government's memorandum emphasises the need to combat the use of alternative substances as substitutes for tobacco smoking, citing the negative impact on public health and the environment. The proposed law outlines severe penalties for violators, including a maximum sentence of one year imprisonment and a fine ranging from 1,000 to 100,000 Bahraini dinars.

The draft legislation also grants the court the authority to order the closure of any establishment involved in the illegal import or distribution of these alternatives for a period of up to three months. Additionally, any confiscated materials will be subject to forfeiture.

The proposed law strengthens existing regulations on tobacco products, imposing a 3,000 dinar fine for displaying tobacco products in food stores where they are easily accessible. The penalty for cultivating tobacco has also been increased to 5,000 dinars. The import and use of automated tobacco vending machines within the Kingdom are strictly prohibited under the new law.

The legislation also addresses the issue of tobacco advertising and promotion. It prohibits the use of tobacco products during sporting events, competitions, concerts, or any other gatherings where they could be used for promotional purposes. Companies producing, importing, or distributing tobacco and cigarettes face a potential fine of 5,000 dinars for any violations of these regulations.