The revision of the smoking control legislation has been published, with penalties for untaxed tobacco-related offenses increased to a fine of 2 million yuan and imprisonment for 7 years

The amendment to the smoking control legislation was published today (19th), with multiple measures taking effect immediately, including an increase in penalties for untaxed tobacco-related offenses to a fine of HKD 2 million and imprisonment for seven years. Customs can also freeze assets related to illegal tobacco activities.

In addition, under the Excise Goods Ordinance, the penalty for failing to declare to customs officials has been raised from HKD 2,000 to HKD 5,000; tobacco products sold below the tobacco tax must prove they have been taxed; it is prohibited to provide alternative smoking products and traditional smoking products to individuals under 18 years old, with a maximum penalty of HKD 50,000 and six months imprisonment for conviction, as well as a fine of HKD 25,000.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health stated that they will continue to promote smoking control in a gradual and multi-faceted manner, strengthen public education and smoking cessation efforts, and explore various medium- and long-term smoking control measures to comprehensively eliminate the harm of tobacco products to society, moving towards a "smoke-free Hong Kong."