Tobacco manufacturers warned to understand law

HEALTH and HIV-AIDS Minister Elias Kapavore has warned tobacco manufacturers and retailers coming to the country to understand the Tobacco Control Act.
Kapavore said tobacco manufacturers who promoted and advertised their products were breaching the Tobacco Control Act 2016 and could be fined K15,000.
He was responding to public concern over tobacco advertising and promotion in stores around Port Moresby.
“All manufacturers and retailers must comply with the laws in place. We are fully aware of what’s happening and we will make sure they comply with the laws,” Kapavore said.
“We will also be ensuring that the Tobacco Control Act is implemented to make the country safe.”
He warned that such advertisements could affect young people. “There are students in primary school who are smoking at an early age,” he said.
“So once this act is fully implemented, we can address the increase in underage smoking and hold those people selling tobacco products to children accountable as well.”
He clarified that the Tobacco Control Act 2016 is yet to be fully implemented by the department which was still working on regulations.
“The regulations (now in the final draft form) give the finer details on how we can implement the act,” he said.
“But I’ve met with the department and the British American Tobacco team.
“There are many new players coming into the country and promoting their products.”
He warned tobacco manufacturers starting business in the country to comply with the country’s laws.”