The Moldovan Parliament is reviewing a draft bill to increase fines for smoking in prohibited public spaces and expand smoke-free zones. Developed by the Ministry of Health and the National Agency for Public Health, the legislation targets rising youth smoking and aligns Moldova with European Union standards.
New Penalties for Individuals and Businesses
Under the proposed amendments, individuals caught smoking in restricted areas face fines of up to 2,250 MDL or 40 to 60 hours of unpaid community service. Legal entities face harsher penalties, with fines reaching 15,000 MDL alongside a potential one-year ban on specific business activities.
| Violation Type | Maximum Penalty (MDL) | Additional Sanctions |
|---|---|---|
| Individual smoking in banned areas | 2,250 MDL | 40 to 60 hours of community service |
| Businesses violating smoke-free laws | 15,000 MDL | Up to 1 year of activity suspension |
| Selling tobacco to minors or in banned zones | 20,000 MDL | None specified |
Expanding Smoke-Free Public Spaces
The draft legislation expands the list of smoke-free zones. Smoking will be prohibited in open public spaces, including state authority properties, medical facilities, educational institutions, and sports venues. The ban also covers workplaces, windows, balconies, parks, playgrounds, beaches, public transport stations, and apartment building stairwells. Employers and property owners must ensure smoke-free environments.
Stricter Rules for E-Cigarettes and Tobacco Sales
The bill introduces new packaging requirements for e-cigarettes, refill bottles, and herbal smoking products. These items must feature labels detailing nicotine content and health risks, covering at least 30% of the packaging surface. Additionally, retailers must present official manufacturer or importer documentation to prove the origin of all tobacco products.
Public health data shows that three out of ten Moldovan adults smoke, with over a quarter consuming tobacco daily. Officials are concerned about youth consumption. A 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey revealed that one-third of Moldovan adolescents had tried e-cigarettes at least once. The bill aligns Moldova’s laws with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines to protect citizens from tobacco exposure.
