WHO FCTC Party Status

Nauru became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on February 27, 2005.

Smoke Free Places

There is a ban on smoking in indoor workplaces, indoor public places, and public transport. The only exception to the ban is airports, which are permitted to have designated smoking areas within transit and departure lounges.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship

The law prohibits most forms of tobacco advertising and promotion, with limited forms of cross-border advertising, reverse brand stretching, and unpaid depiction allowed. Although sponsorship by the tobacco industry is not prohibited, publicity of the sponsorship is prohibited.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling

The law requires that a text warning health warning message occupy at least 30 percent of the largest or front surface of the pack, and an explanatory message occupy at least 30 percent of the opposite side of the pack. Smaller warning sizes are allowed for unusual shaped packages and cigar packages with a hinged lid. There are six rotating pairs of warning messages and corresponding explanatory messages. Misleading packaging and labeling, which could include terms such as “light” and “low tar” and other signs, is prohibited.

Cigarette Contents and Disclosures

The law does not grant the authority to regulate the contents of cigarettes. The law requires that 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 single cigarettes and the sale tobacco products in packs of less than 20 sticks, via vending machine and the internet, and in restaurants. The sale of tobacco products is prohibited to persons under the age of 20.

E-Cigarettes

The law prohibits the manufacture, possession, sale, supply, and import of e-cigarettes and e-cigarette accessories. The use of e-cigarettes is specifically banned, as well as e-cigarette advertising, promotion and sponsorship.

Heated Tobacco Products

Heated tobacco product inserts and devices are regulated in the same manner as conventional tobacco products, including a ban on internet and vending machine sales, restrictions on the location of the sales, and a minimum sales age.

Roadmap to Tobacco Control Legislation

The Tobacco Control Act 2009 (Act No. 4/2009) (as amended) is the primary piece of legislation governing tobacco control, including smoke-free places; tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship; packaging and labeling; sales restrictions; emissions restrictions and disclosure requirements; and e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. The Tobacco Control Regulations 2009 (as amended) implement the Tobacco Control Act and address point-of-sale signage, signs in smoke-free places, packaging and labeling requirements, emissions testing and disclosure, and licensing. The Tobacco Control (Authorised Officer) Notice 2015 (as amended) designates an authorized officer. The Tobacco Control (Fixed Penalty Notices) Regulations 2023 provide the procedures for fixed penalty notification and payment, and court appearances, among other things.

Review Status

This country’s legal measures have not been reviewed by our legal staff or verified by in-country lawyers or tobacco control experts. The provided laws may not be comprehensive, accurately identified, or currently in effect. Any English translations may be unofficial and unverified. If you have additional information or can help us locate additional laws, please contact us to ensure our collection is accurate and complete.