Tk5,000 fine for selling tobacco near schools, hospitals

The government has tightened restrictions on the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products near schools, hospitals, clinics, sports grounds, and children’s parks.

Under the new Smoking and Tobacco Products (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, anyone selling tobacco within 100 meters of these premises can face a fine of up to Tk 5,000.

The ordinance, issued Tuesday night (December 30) by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Law Ministry, amends the 2005 Smoking and Tobacco Products (Control) Act.

It prohibits individuals from selling or allowing the sale of tobacco products within 100 meters of the designated institutions. The government or local authorities may expand this restricted zone through general or special orders.

Repeat offenders face double the penalty under the new rules.