Retailers warned against sale of tobacco products to underage youth

PESHAWAR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Jul, 2026) The district administration on Wednesday warned shopkeepers that selling cigarettes and other tobacco products to underage individuals is a punishable offence under the Tobacco Control Act, 2011, and urged strict compliance with the law.

Presiding over a meeting on tobacco control, Assistant Commissioner Peshawar Saddar Hasina Khan said the district administration would intensify enforcement to prevent the sale of tobacco products to minors and protect young people from the harmful effects of smoking.

She said smoking is prohibited at educational institutions, healthcare facilities, public transport and other public places under the law, adding that violators would face legal action.

The meeting was informed that the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products within a 20-metre radius of educational institutions and health centres is also prohibited under the Tobacco Control Act.

Hasina Khan directed the relevant departments to ensure effective implementation of tobacco control regulations through regular inspections and awareness campaigns.

She said retailers must comply with legal requirements regarding the sale of tobacco products and cooperate with the authorities.

Expressing concern over the growing trend of smoking among youth, she said the government is committed to discouraging tobacco consumption and safeguarding public health through strict enforcement of existing laws.