The government of Bahrain has implemented stricter penalties for those involved in the sale and distribution of herbal alternatives to tobacco. Under the new rules, offenders could face up to a year in jail or a fine of up to 1,000 dinars. These measures are part of a broader effort to crack down on smoking in public spaces, including barber shops and parks. The aim is to close loopholes in existing anti-smoking laws and tackle not only traditional tobacco products but also herbal or non-nicotine substitutes.
In addition to the penalties for selling herbal alternatives, fines of 20 to 50 dinars will be imposed on individuals who violate the ban on smoking in indoor public spaces. This includes areas such as transport hubs, airports, government offices, hospitals, schools, and barber shops, among others. The minister has the authority to designate other locations where smoking is prohibited. Courts have been given the power to shut down businesses for up to three months or confiscate materials involved in violations of these regulations.
The amendments to Law No. 8 of 2009, which governs all forms of tobacco use, have been submitted to the Council of Representatives for review. The changes also include fines for selling cigarettes individually or providing tobacco products to minors under the age of 18. Cafés and sports clubs that permit smoking in public areas will face a 100-dinar fine as part of the government’s efforts to safeguard public health. These new measures reflect a concerted push to enforce anti-smoking laws and reduce the prevalence of smoking in Bahrain.
The government’s crackdown on tobacco extends to non-nicotine substitutes as well, targeting sellers who offer herbal alternatives to traditional tobacco products. By imposing harsh penalties and fines, authorities aim to discourage the sale and distribution of these substances, which may pose health risks similar to those associated with smoking. The regulations also reinforce the ban on smoking in indoor public spaces, highlighting the government’s commitment to creating smoke-free environments for residents and visitors alike.
Business owners and individuals involved in the sale and distribution of tobacco products must adhere to the updated regulations to avoid facing fines, imprisonment, or business closures. The government’s efforts to enforce anti-smoking laws underscore the importance of protecting public health and promoting a smoke-free society in Bahrain. By implementing stricter penalties for offenders and strengthening enforcement measures, authorities seek to reduce the prevalence of smoking and tobacco use in public spaces, ultimately improving the well-being of the population and promoting healthier lifestyles.
