Govt committed to protecting future generations from tobacco: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting children and future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine, marking World No Tobacco Day 2026.

In a message issued on Saturday, the prime minister said tobacco and nicotine products, including cigarettes, bidis, e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, are major risk factors for heart disease, stroke, cancer and chronic respiratory illnesses.

He highlighted a series of tobacco-control measures, including bans on tobacco advertising and promotion across print, electronic and digital media, as well as restrictions on sales near educational institutions, healthcare facilities and recreational spaces. The sale of tobacco and nicotine products to individuals under 18 is also prohibited.

Citing data from the World Health Organization, Rahman said non-communicable diseases account for around 71% of deaths in Bangladesh, with tobacco use remaining a key contributor. According to Tobacco Atlas 2025, more than 199,000 people die from tobacco-related diseases in the country each year.

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The prime minister stressed the need for effective enforcement of tobacco-control regulations and greater public awareness, saying coordinated efforts could help build a healthier and tobacco-free Bangladesh.