Bangladesh’s Council of Advisers approved the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 on December 24, paving the way for stricter tobacco control measures. The ordinance proposes a ban on the use, production, and marketing of emerging tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and “similar items,” while expanding the definition of tobacco products to include nicotine pouches.
The amended law also prohibits the use of all tobacco products in public places and public transport, with designated smoking areas subject to government directives. Advertising, promotion, and display of tobacco products—including online marketing—would be fully banned, and enforcement powers strengthened through expanded definitions of public places and transport.
In addition, the ordinance increases mandatory health warnings on tobacco packaging from 50% to 75% of the pack surface. The government said the measures are aimed at significantly reducing tobacco use and strengthening public health protection nationwide.
