Ban on the sale of tobacco products in kiosks, grocery stores and central markets in Saudi

Tobacco product sales at grocery shops, central markets, and kiosks would be prohibited, according to a proposal by the Saudi Ministry of Municipalities and Housing. Prior to finalizing the document, the ministry posted this and other draft suggestions on the public survey platform Istitlaa to get public feedback.

The selling of tobacco products is governed by a number of regulations in the proposed rules. The sale of tobacco products must therefore adhere to the basic specifications set forth by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). Products containing tobacco must be kept in closed drawers and completely invisible to guests at the commercial establishment.

Tobacco sales to anyone under the age of eighteen should be prohibited, according to the draft regulations, and the vendor must request documentation from the purchase attesting to the customer's age. A warning sign with graphic representations of the dangers of smoking must also be erected above the cash register and be easily observable. "Smoking and tobacco products are a major cause of diseases and cancer of mouth, lungs, heart, and arteries," it must warn, and it must forbid the sale of tobacco products to anybody younger than the age allowed by the Anti-Smoking Law.

The draft regulations also forbade the promotion and advertising of tobacco goods. Employees and guests alike are not permitted to smoke within the building, and "No Smoking" signs must be posted to provide clarification.