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Mexico’s new public smoking ban includes no more lighting up on beaches

Riviera Maya, Q.R. — As of January 15, smoking in all public spaces in Mexico is prohibited. Smoking in public, along with the promotion and sponsorship of tobacco, is also now against the law.

According to the Ministry of Health, the new law takes effect January 15, 2023 after several modifications to the Regulation of the General Law for Tobacco Control, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) during 2021 and 2022.

Mexico’s newly enforced legislation is considered to be one of the most stringent anti-smoking laws in the world. In 2008, Mexico passed a law that created smoke-free indoor places including bars and restaurants.

Now, the law has been extended to include outdoor public spaces such as hotels, offices, restaurants, parks, public transport, all schools and beaches.

The new law also includes a total ban on the advertising, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products. “The direct or indirect display of tobacco products at points of sale is prohibited,” the Ministry wrote in their public statement regarding the new law.

The Pan American Health Organization has welcomed the ban and applauded the Mexican Government.