Warning labels now in effect for cigarette packs

In accordance with Section 58 (3) of the Securities Industry Act, Demerara Tobacco Company Limited (Demtoco) yesterday said that mandatory graphic warnings will now be placed on cigarette packs.

It said that pursuant to Section 2 of the Tobacco Control Regulations, the new packaging and labelling requirements for tobacco products and electronic delivery systems came into force nine months from the date of entry of the said Tobacco Control Regulations.

As a result, the following Graphic Health Warnings (see accompanying images) would be on display on cigarette packages imported by the Company. Demtoco said that this could affect the market and business operations of the Company.

The issuing of the regulations has been seen as a major step forward by Guyana in complying with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

The Commencement Order for the Tobacco Control Act was published on December 15, 2017. Under the provisions of this act, the Government of Guyana is working towards the creation of 100% smoke-free environments in all indoor public spaces and specified outdoor spaces including any part of any indoor workplace. This means that anyone smoking in a place of work even if privately owned commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 for the first offence and $20,000 for any second and subsequent offences.

Part V of the Act also criminalizes smoking in any means of public transport whether or not it is carrying a member of the public or in any means of transport at the time of transporting a minor.