[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] Hong Kong's smoking rate has dropped to the lowest level since surveys began, falling to the 9% range. According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on the 26th, Hong Kong health authorities announced that the smoking rate at the end of last year was 9.5%, a significant decrease from 10.2% in 2019. The authorities had previously pledged to reduce the smoking rate to 7.8% by 2025.
Sophia Chan, Secretary for Food and Health, explained, "The smoking rate is at an all-time low and has fallen to a single digit for the first time since records began."
However, the number of e-cigarette users surged. The figure increased from about 7,200 in 2019 to 17,500 last year. Secretary Chan stated that the government plans to lower the smoking rate through strategies referencing overseas cases, including ▲ expanding legally designated no-smoking areas ▲ generally reducing interest in tobacco products ▲ preventing youth smoking.
Since last month, the sale and import of e-cigarettes have been completely banned in Hong Kong. According to the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance amended in October 2021, the Hong Kong Department of Health has prohibited the import, manufacture, sale, advertisement, and commercial possession of tobacco substitutes, including e-cigarettes and herbal cigarettes, starting from April 30 this year. Ordering e-cigarettes from overseas via the internet and having them delivered to Hong Kong is also illegal. Violations can result in a maximum fine of HKD 50,000 (approximately 8.07 million KRW) or imprisonment for up to six months.
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