Turkey to Completely Ban Smoking - Timeline

The implementation of strict restrictions against tobacco products is being discussed in Turkey.

Modern.az reports that the ruling AKP party has prepared a bill aiming for a complete cessation of tobacco products by 2040. According to Hürriyet newspaper, within the framework of the project, the sale, production, and import of tobacco products may be completely banned.

It is reported that this goal is planned to be achieved in stages. In the first stage, the smoking ban may cover public places, outdoor areas of cafes and restaurants, educational institutions, hospitals, and religious sites.

The bill also envisages expanding the definition of “tobacco product.” This may include not only traditional cigarettes but also electronic cigarettes, vapes, hookahs, tobacco heating systems, as well as synthetic and organic nicotine-containing products.

For violations of the bans, fines ranging from 1 million to 10 million lira (approximately 20,000–200,000 euros) are envisioned, and for business entities, the revocation of licenses. Administrative fines may also be applied to tourists and individuals for possessing, purchasing, and bringing tobacco products into the country.

It should be noted that the bill has not yet been finally adopted.