The MPs passed the bill on tobacco control in the first reading. After the bill is adopted in the final reading and takes effect when it is published, any form of advertising for smoking will be banned. Smoking in closed and semi-closed areas and supporting of different events by the tobacco industry will be banned. The bill was adopted unanimously, IPN reports.

Deputy Minister of Health Svetlana Cotelea said in Parliament that the bill is aimed not at criminalizing smoking, but at protecting the nonsmokers from the negative effects of tobacco smoke.

The official said that 25% of the Moldovans are active smokers. We annually have over 4,500 deaths from diseases caused by smoking. The country yearly supports losses of over 1 billion lei for treating diseases caused by smoking

The bill bans the advertisements for tobacco articles. Smoking in public transport stations and within 10 meters of them, on stadiums and on arenas during events is banned. Sponsoring by the tobacco industry is not allowed.

Cigarette producers will be obliged to publish such messages as “Smoking causes 9 of 10 lung cancers” and “Smoking increases the risk of going blind” on packs. The exhibition of tobacco products will be fined 2,400 to 3,000 lei in the case of private individuals and 8,000 to 9,000 lei in the case of legal entities and persons holding responsible positions.

The penalties will be imposed by the police.