Last updated: November 22, 2022

Summary

Antigua and Barbuda became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on June 5, 2006.

Smoke Free Places

The law prohibits smoking in all indoor public places, indoor workplaces, and means of public transport. In addition, smoking is prohibited in several outdoor places, including parks, playgrounds, and outdoor areas of childcare, educational, and healthcare facilities.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship

The law prohibits tobacco advertising and promotion. However, product displays at points of sale are restricted in size, cannot be visible from outside, and can only include one packet of each brand. All forms of tobacco sponsorship are prohibited.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling

The law requires rotating pictorial health warnings to cover 50 percent of the front and back of tobacco product packaging. Misleading packaging and labeling, including terms such as “light” and “low tar” and other signs, is prohibited.

Cigarette Contents and Disclosures

The law regulates specified contents of cigarettes, including banning characterizing flavors and additives that create the impression of energy or vitality, health benefits, or reduced health risks. The law requires that manufacturers and importers disclose to government authorities information on the emissions of their products, but does not require disclosure of information on contents.

Sales Restrictions

The law prohibits the sale of tobacco products via the internet, vending machines, and in educational facilities, healthcare facilities, government facilities, and sporting and entertainment venues. In addition, the law prohibits the sale of single cigarettes and small packs of cigarettes. The sale of tobacco products is prohibited to persons under the age of 18.

Roadmap to Tobacco Control Legislation

The Tobacco Control Act 2018 is the primary law governing tobacco products and tobacco use. The law includes restrictions on use in public, advertising, promotion and sponsorship, cigarette contents, and sales. In addition, the law requires health warnings and other measures on product packaging and labeling. Regulations under the law establishing the contents of the health warnings have yet to be issued. The Tobacco Control Act 2018 repealed the Tobacco Control Act 1947 (Cap 430).

Review Status

This country’s legal measures were reviewed by our legal staff. No in-country lawyers or tobacco control experts reviewed our analysis.