The Portuguese government approved a new tobacco law at the council of ministers this Thursday. “The government has approved in the Council of Ministers a proposal for a law that will take decisive steps in promoting health in relation to the impact of tobacco,” said the Minister of Health.
“Heated tobacco packs are now equivalent to regular tobacco,” Pizarro added.
The minister explains that the measures taken are aimed at protecting the health of those who are exposed to tobacco smoke, and at saving the younger generation from tobacco addiction.
In the catering sector, cafes and restaurants will not be able to sell tobacco due to the fact that these premises are also non-smoking.
At a press conference, Manuel Pizarro stressed the need for a legal transposition of a European directive on this issue and the desire to “reduce incentives to consume” and help the Portuguese “overcome addiction” to tobacco.