Health authorities reinforce ban on single cigarette sales

April 16, 2026 9:33 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Ezra Toara.

Public health authorities have intensified enforcement against the sale of single cigarettes, with significant penalties now in place for individuals and businesses found in breach of the law.

Environmental Health Compliance Officer Yann Johnny confirmed that the ongoing operation targets vendors selling single cigarettes, commonly referred to as “loose” or “single stick” sales. Under current regulations, individuals face fines of up to VT700,000, while businesses and shops risk penalties of up to VT4 million.

Mr. Johnny explained that compliance officers, during routine inspections, have incorporated tobacco control into their broader public health enforcement duties. As a result, officers are actively identifying and stopping the sale of single cigarettes in retail outlets.

He noted that the initiative is part of a wider effort to address growing concerns over tobacco use, particularly among children. Authorities have observed an increasing number of young people, including primary school students, accessing cigarettes due to their affordability when sold individually. This concern has also been compounded by gradual price increases in cigarette products—from VT50 to VT70—largely driven by taxation, though single stick sales continue to undermine these measures.

“The prohibition of single cigarette sales is critical,” Johnny said. “When young people have small amounts of money, they can easily purchase a single cigarette, making access too convenient.”

Under the Tobacco Act No. 19 of 2008, businesses are strictly prohibited from selling individual cigarettes and are only permitted to sell full packs. Retailers are also required to verify identification before selling tobacco products to ensure minors are not able to purchase them.

Johnny confirmed that enforcement measures include issuing notices, confiscating cigarettes from non compliant vendors, and destroying seized products through official compliance procedures. In addition, health authorities are distributing warning stickers to be displayed prominently at points of sale, reminding businesses of their legal obligations and the penalties for non compliance.

He added that cigarette packaging already contains graphic health warnings illustrating the harmful effects of smoking, including risks such as heart disease and other serious illnesses. The additional point of sale stickers reinforce these messages and aim to further discourage illegal sales practices.

While penalties primarily target businesses, individuals may also face legal consequences in serious or repeated cases of non compliance.

Looking ahead, Johnny revealed that enforcement efforts will expand to include nakamals and kava bars, where single cigarette sales are also prevalent. Authorities are encouraging these establishments to adopt responsible practices, including designating specific smoking areas to reduce exposure to second hand smoke.

“Second hand smoke poses serious health risks, especially for children and non smokers who are exposed to it in public spaces,” he stressed.

Johnny highlighted that compliance officers operate under a broader mandate to reduce public health risks, with tobacco identified as a major concern. Despite ongoing efforts since the introduction of the Tobacco Act in 2008, enforcement has been challenged by limited staffing and resources.

He noted that previous initiatives included working with tobacco importers to ensure health warnings were printed on cigarette packaging, as required by law. However, resource constraints have slowed the full implementation of all provisions under the legislation.

The department is currently working with the State Law Office to propose amendments to strengthen the Tobacco Act and address operational challenges. These proposed changes are expected to be submitted to the Council of Ministers for consideration.

Johnny also pointed to successful awareness initiatives, such as “No Smoking” stickers in public transport vehicles, developed in partnership with public land transport authorities. However, demand for these materials has exceeded supply due to funding limitations, resulting in shortages.

He emphasised the need for stronger collaboration with stakeholders, including transport authorities, to improve enforcement. For example, cases of smoking in public buses can be reported using vehicle plate numbers, allowing authorities to take action under relevant regulations.

Despite these challenges, Johnny expressed optimism, noting that additional personnel are now being assigned to strengthen tobacco control efforts.

He concluded by calling on the public and businesses to take responsibility in supporting the law.

“Public health is not only the responsibility of the Ministry of Health—it is everyone’s responsibility,” he said. “If we want a healthier society, we must all comply with the law and support efforts to reduce smoking.”