The government has stated that Switzerland will ban tobacco products and e-cigarette advertising targeting young people in order to implement a decision passed in last year's referendum.


The cabinet has stated that it will strengthen its planned restrictions and prohibit advertising in places and media that young people can see.

According to Reuters, the new law will come into effect in mid-2026 and strengthen restrictions on tobacco and e-cigarette packaging and advertising, which will take effect next year.

This move will affect print media, online advertising, and festivals, aiming to reduce tobacco consumption and related deaths.

The Swiss government stated that smoking is still quite common in Switzerland, with 9500 premature deaths caused by tobacco consumption each year, and described it as one of the country's biggest public health problems.

Tobacco use can lead to various non communicable diseases, with medical expenses reaching 3 billion Swiss francs (3.37 billion US dollars) annually, "the government said.

In the future, printed media, shops, or activities that minors can visit will not be allowed to promote tobacco products or e-cigarettes.

In addition, sponsoring activities for individuals under the age of 18 will be prohibited. If the age control system is in place, online advertising will still be allowed.

In February 2022, 57% of Swiss voters passed the referendum of "agreeing to protect children and adolescents from tobacco advertising", thus imposing stricter restrictions.