Half of Daily Minimum Wage as Fine... Mexico "Public Smoking Ban"

'Strong Anti-Smoking Law' Enacted... Tobacco Advertising Also Banned
"Concerns Over Some Police Officers Abusing It as a Bribe Excuse"

From now on, smoking will be completely banned in all public places throughout Mexico. Violating this law can result in a fine of up to 200,000 won.

According to the BBC and others on the 15th (local time), Mexico implemented one of the strictest anti-smoking laws in the Americas on this day. The Mexican Ministry of Health enacted an amendment to the General Smoking Regulation Act, which includes various restrictions on tobacco consumption and promotion, effective from this day. The amendment strengthens the 2008 law that required the creation of smoke-free areas in bars, restaurants, and workplaces, and was passed by both the Mexican Senate and Chamber of Deputies last month.

Under this law, smoking is prohibited in public places such as parks, beaches, hotels, schools, performance venues, and sports stadiums. Additionally, all indoor workplaces and places where minors are present must be smoke-free to prevent harm from secondhand smoke. This includes the use of electronic cigarettes. Advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of tobacco products are also completely banned. Displaying cigarettes inside convenience stores or supermarkets is illegal.

Local governments are also increasing fines for smoking violations. In Mexico City, the capital, those caught smoking in non-smoking areas can be fined up to 3,000 pesos (approximately 197,000 won). The monthly minimum wage in Mexico this year is about 429,000 won, making the smoking fines relatively high in comparison.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Americas regional office of the World Health Organization (WHO), welcomed the measure, stating, "Tobacco use is one of the most preventable causes of death worldwide, causing nearly one million deaths annually in the Americas due to direct consumption or secondhand smoke." They also explained, "Following the COVID-19 pandemic, strong public health policies against harmful tobacco use have gained traction in Mexico."

Christian Morales, former head of the WHO Mexico office, emphasized, "This amendment represents a historic advancement in Mexico's anti-smoking policies," and added, "It reaffirms that Mexico is playing a leading role in the fight against tobacco, not only in the Americas but globally."

On the other hand, some smokers are disappointed with the amendment, as it essentially means smoking is only allowed at home or in private spaces. There are also criticisms regarding the effectiveness of the amendment. The BBC reported, "In Mexico, where police corruption is widespread, there is a high possibility that fines or penalties for smokers will be exploited by some police officers as an excuse to accept bribes rather than being enforced effectively."