The warnings about the dangers posed by smoking will occupy at least 50% of the surface of cigarette packs. The required minimum volume is now 30%. The text will be accompanied by a pictogram. The issue was discussed in a working meeting at the Ministry of Health, IPN reports.

The warnings will be printed on each pack and each external package. There will be indicated the phone number, the email address and the website that informs the consumers about the available programs supporting the persons who want to give up smoking.

The new bill, which is now being debated, will ban any form of advertising for tobacco products, including advertisements on the radio and television, in the print media, over the Internet, and by movies. The selling of food products, toys and other products that make a connection with tobacco products will also be prohibited.

The Ministry of Health also proposes banning smoking in all the closed and semi-closed public places, at the workplace, in public units of transport, regardless of the ownership regime or access way, and within 10 meters of the entrance to closed public areas and workplaces. Among the discussed proposals are to ban smoking on the stadiums, arenas, markets and other open public areas during public recreational or other kinds of events, in public transport stations and within 10 meters of them.

The Ministry expects that the Government will approve the bill by the end of this year. Parliament will adopt it afterward.