New Regulations Ban Tobacco Sales to Minors in Riyadh

Riyadh - In accordance with regulations released by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing (MOMRA), the sale of tobacco products to those under 18 is now prohibited. MOMRA has established terms and conditions for stores that sell tobacco products, which were displayed on the "Istitla" platform of the National Competitiveness Center, seeking public opinion and suggestions on these regulations.

These regulations aim to standardize the shops that are approved to sell tobacco products, such as hookah lounges, traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and their derivatives and accessories, as well as ensure the safety and quality of these products.

Individuals wishing to engage in the sale of tobacco products must obtain a municipal license in accordance with the Municipal Licensing Procedures Law and its implementing regulations, as per the terms and conditions.

Similarly, individuals under the age of 18 are prohibited from entering tobacco shops or purchasing these products. Sellers have the right to require proof of being at least 18 years old from buyers. Stores are not allowed to operate after midnight unless they have obtained a 24-hour work permit. This condition does not apply during Ramadan or holidays.

The terms and conditions state that shops are obligated to sell cigarettes in sealed packaging with a maximum of 20 cigarettes per pack. It is not permitted to sell tobacco products in pill form and retailing by kilogram or partial weight is also prohibited.

It is prohibited to offer any discounts on the prices of tobacco or any of its derivative products, or to showcase them in free promotional activities such as gifts, prizes, or samples given for any purpose.

The sale or display of any products containing tobacco or tobacco derivatives is prohibited on all forms of public transportation including vehicles, buses, trains, ships, boats and airplanes.

These regulations prohibit the import, sale, or display of any products that directly or indirectly advertise tobacco or its derivatives. Additionally, the use of tobacco residues generated from smoking or any operations during the smoking process that may degrade its quality or characteristics is prohibited. The regulations also prohibit the use of any name, symbol, logo, or image on tobacco products in a manner that violates public order.

According to regulations, employees at tobacco shops are required to wear uniforms that are clean and display the name of the store. If an employee contracts any illness, they must stop working and can only return to their position once fully recovered.

These requirements stipulate that toilets and bathrooms must be provided for workers, provided that these facilities have chairs and prayer areas. Additionally, sleeping or relaxing inside stores is prohibited, as well as eating, drinking, and smoking outside of designated areas.

According to regulations, it is prohibited to display tobacco products and merchandise on the floor, front, or wooden and plastic trays of a store, and they must be neatly displayed on shelves and metal and rust-resistant drawers. The Ministry of Health emphasizes in its regulations that warning signs should be displayed in stores to explain the dangers of using tobacco products.

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