Moldova tightens smoking laws: fines increase
Smoking will be prohibited in additional public areas, and fines for rule violations will be raised.
Authorities state that stricter sanctions for smokers will prevent and curb this harmful habit. However, smokers claim they are compelled to break the law due to the lack of designated smoking areas or their ignorance of permissible locations.
According to statistical data, three out of ten adult Moldovans are smokers, and more than a quarter consume tobacco products daily. Higher fines and more restrictions, they say, will not stop them from smoking.
"I believe the only solution is to establish designated smoking areas."
"- Where do you smoke when you're in town? - On the street, as I've always done. - Have you ever been fined? - No. Not yet, but I might be soon."
"Is it good that fines will be applied? - Since I'm a smoker, not really. You smoke wherever you happen to be? - At work and at home. That's it."
On the other hand, non-smokers argue that the city is increasingly polluted, and stricter laws would change the situation.
"They discard cigarette butts indiscriminately, they spit indiscriminately; it's a complete mess," says a woman.
Other residents argue that smoking at bus stops or near playgrounds is unacceptable. "As someone who can't stand tobacco, I hate when I'm at the bus stop and someone smokes – I have to choke because of it."
"Many smoke in public spaces and set a bad example for younger children. In a way, it influences their future and affects their health," added another resident of the capital.
"The smell bothers me at children's playgrounds and everywhere."
In mid-March, Parliament voted in the first reading a set of measures to prevent and combat smoking. The project also includes unique requirements for labeling all tobacco products.
"We are moving from 30% to 50% of the package surface for mandatory warning labeling. At the same time, the sale of nicotine pouches is prohibited, as they form the basis for addiction in adolescents," said PAS deputy, Adrian Belîi.
According to representatives of the National Inspectorate for Public Security, the number of people fined for smoking in prohibited places is increasing.
"During 2024, the National Inspectorate for Public Security officers drew up 782 offense reports for citizens who smoked in prohibited places. Since January 1, INSP officers have documented 486 citizens," said INSP press officer, Ana Chiselița.
Under the new regulations, legal entities will face fines of up to 15,000 lei, and individuals up to 2,250 lei, for smoking in restricted areas.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
