January 3, 2026 | 10:20 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - January 1 in Hong Kong marks more than just the start of a new year, as it ushers in a stricter era of tobacco control. From the first day of 2026, smoking penalties officially doubled, with fixed fines rising from $1,500 to $3,000.
The change is part of three key updates under the Tobacco Control Legislation (Amendment) Ordinance 2025. One major update is the expansion of statutory No Smoking Areas (NSAs), which now include public spaces within three meters of entrances and exits for child care centers, residential care homes, schools, hospitals, clinics, and health centers. These zones add to the long list of smoke-free locations throughout the city.
The amendments also introduce a ban on smoking while queuing, affecting smokers lining up at public transport hubs and designated boarding areas. It also applies to queues for public premises such as cinemas, museums, and concert halls.
As reported by Time Out, the move underscores Hong Kong’s serious commitment to curbing illegal smoking and tightening tobacco laws. Higher fines are not the only measure being rolled out. The Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) has also equipped frontline inspectors with body-worn cameras to strengthen enforcement across the city.
Looking ahead, April 30, 2026, will bring another major regulatory change, as the possession of e-cigarettes and alternative smoking products will be banned in public places, as noted by news.gov.hk.
To support these changes, TACO continues to roll out publicity and education campaigns. These efforts use television, radio, and social media to raise public awareness about the dangers of smoking.
Read: Maldives' Generational Ban on Smoking Goes into Effect
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