Almost 490 fines for smoking in prohibited places were imposed in the first months of this year, twice as many as in the same period last year. This increase in penalties comes in the context of a stricter law, which aims to protect public health and align national legislation with European Union rules.

Contacted by IPN for details, Ana Chiselita, press officer of the National Public Security Inspectorate, said the fines vary between 1,500 and 2,100 lei for individuals who smoke in prohibited places, such as public transport, amusement parks or playgrounds.

The fines can amount to 15,000 lei for legal entities. In case of repeated violations, additional penalties can be imposed, such as ban on carrying out particular activities.

Parliament recently adopted a draft law that extends the list of places where smoking will be banned, including near public buildings, on beaches, in public transport stations and in the stairs of apartment blocks. It also increases the fines for individuals to 2,250 lei and for those who sell tobacco products in prohibited places or to minors to 20,000 lei.

The initiative comes in response to worrying statistics that show that almost 30% of Moldovans are smokers, and the number of adolescents who use tobacco increases constantly.