The government has brought into force the Smoking and Tobacco Products Use (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, strengthening the existing tobacco control law to better protect public health.

The ordinance came into effect on December 30 following approval from the President, according to the Health Services Division under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The amendment reinforces the Smoking and Tobacco Products Use (Control) Act, 2005, introducing tougher restrictions, higher penalties and a comprehensive ban on emerging tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes and vapes.

The primary objective of the ordinance is to safeguard people from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine products, repeal separate legislation on bidi manufacturing by introducing a unified law, and completely prohibit emerging tobacco products such as e-cigarettes, vapes and heated tobacco products.

Key Changes and Additions

Expanded definition of tobacco products

The ordinance expands the definition of “tobacco products” to include e-cigarettes, Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs), nicotine pouches and all emerging products. The government will also have the authority to declare any product a tobacco product through gazette notification. Separate definitions for “nicotine” and “nicotine products” have been added, while the scope of “public place” has been significantly broadened.

Ban on use in public places

The use of all tobacco products, in addition to smoking, has been banned in all public places and public transport. The fine for violating this provision has been increased from Tk 300 to Tk 2,000.

Complete ban on advertisement and promotion

All forms of tobacco advertising have been prohibited across print, electronic, online and social media platforms, including OTT platforms. Display and promotion of tobacco packs at points of sale have also been banned. Additionally, the use of tobacco company names or logos in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and financial sponsorship of events or programmes by tobacco companies have been prohibited.

Sales ban near schools and hospitals

The sale of tobacco products has been prohibited within 100 metres of educational institutions, hospitals, clinics, playgrounds and children’s parks.

Ban on e-cigarettes and emerging tobacco products

The production, import, export, storage, sale and use of e-cigarettes and other emerging tobacco products have been declared punishable offences. Violators may face up to six months’ imprisonment, a fine of up to Tk 500,000, or both.

Ban on bidi made from kumbi and tendu leaves

The production, marketing and use of bidis made from kumbi and tendu leaves have been completely banned. Consequently, the Bidi Manufacture (Prohibition) Ordinance, 1975 has been repealed.

Prohibition on mixing addictive substances

Mixing any harmful or addictive substances with tobacco or tobacco products has been made a punishable offence.

Health warnings and standard packaging

The ordinance mandates that tobacco product packages must carry graphic health warnings covering at least 75 percent of the pack. Sale of tobacco products without standardised packaging has been prohibited.

Stronger enforcement and penalties

Penalties, including fines and imprisonment, have been significantly increased. Provisions have also been introduced for licence cancellation, seizure of products and prosecution under the Code of Criminal Procedure in cases involving companies.