New Zealand has become the first country to legislate a tobacco ban for young people
Wellington lawmakers have passed legislation, which will see a near-complete ban of tobacco products.
It means citizens born after 2008 will not be able to purchase cigarettes or tobacco products.
New Zealand’s Health Minister Ayesha Verrall said the legislation is a step towards a smoke-free future.
“Thousands of people will live longer, healthier lives, and the health system will be NZ$5 billion better off from not needing to treat the illnesses caused by smoking.”
Around 8 per cent of New Zealanders currently smoke—the lowest figure in the nation’s history.
“It means nicotine will be reduced to non-addictive levels and communities will be free from the proliferation and clustering of retailers who target and sell tobacco products in certain areas,” Dr Verrall said.
The legislation seeks to decrease the number of younger people purchasing tobacco products.
It means 40-year-olds will not be able to buy cigarettes by 2040.
