A wave of opposition is mounting against Hong Kong’s proposed tobacco-control policies, as businesses and several lawmakers warn that a complete ban on menthol, fruit-flavored, and electronic cigarettes could cripple the city’s economy and deter tourists.
Authorities have outlined ten smoking curbs, including a sweeping prohibition on alternative tobacco products, aiming to reduce Hong Kong’s smoking rate from 9.1% to 7.8% by next year. This ambitious plan, set to be presented to the Legislative Council by year-end, encompasses bans on flavored cigarettes, e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, herbal cigarettes, and shisha.
Health Secretary Lo Chung-mau recently engaged with lawmakers to discuss these measures, which he argues are crucial to reducing youth smoking rates. The government maintains its stance, despite concerns from some lawmakers and the bar industry about the potential economic impact.
Lawmaker Tang Fei, part of the Council on Smoking and Health, applauded the initiative as a foundational step towards a smoke-free Hong Kong. However, Rebecca Chan Hoi-yan, chair of the Legco panel on health services, called for more transparent data on smoking rates among teens and females. She questioned the lack of restrictions on traditional cigarettes and proposed a phased implementation to mitigate economic repercussions for bars.
Chin Chun-wing, chairman of the Hong Kong Bar and Club Association, highlighted that shisha sales constitute half the revenue for 200 of Hong Kong’s 1,300 bars. He urged the government to delay the legislation until the economy stabilizes.
Wholesale and retail lawmaker Peter Shiu Ka-fai expressed concerns that the bans could discourage mainland Chinese tourists, vital to Hong Kong’s economy. Timothy Chui Ting-pong, executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Association, echoed these fears, noting that over 300 million mainlanders smoke. He suggested that Hong Kong could emulate Japan by establishing designated smoking areas for tourists.
Joe Lo Kai-lut from the Heated Tobacco Concern Group warned that a complete ban might exacerbate the illicit cigarette market. Similarly, lawmaker Steven Ho Chun-yin criticized consecutive tobacco duty hikes, pointing out that they have fueled illegal sales.
As Hong Kong navigates these contentious policies, the balance between public health initiatives and economic vitality remains a focal point of debate.
