Osaka, Japan, is weighing additional measures to curb illegal street smoking after a municipal survey revealed diverging views between smokers and nonsmokers following the citywide ban introduced in January 2025. According to the survey, nearly half of nonsmokers surveyed supported raising the current 1,000-yen ($65) fine and strengthening patrols and public awareness, while about 60% of smokers called for more designated smoking areas. In response, the city plans to add 65 new smoking zones on top of the 195 already in place, increase enforcement staff beyond the current 85 officers and assistants, and focus resources on high-incidence areas, especially those in entertainment districts. Osaka reported a 40% year-on-year decline in street smoking, as it continues efforts to balance compliance with public comfort ahead of the Osaka Kansai Expo.
