Ecuador became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on October 23, 2006.

 

Smoke Free Places: Smoking is prohibited in indoor workplaces, public places and public transportation. There is one exemption to the smoking ban, which allows smoking in up to 10 percent of hotel guestrooms provided the rooms are designated as smoking rooms only and comply with regulations. Smoking is also prohibited in outdoor areas of health facilities and primary and secondary educational facilities. Sub-national jurisdictions may adopt regulations that are more stringent.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship: Most forms of tobacco advertising and promotion are prohibited with a few exceptions. Tobacco advertising is permitted inside places that may be accessed by adults (18+ years) only and through direct communication by email or the postal services, provided the adult consumer requests to receive information in writing, and the consumer’s being of majority age is verified. Although sponsorship by the tobacco industry is only prohibited in part, all publicity of sponsorship is prohibited.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling: Tobacco product packages must contain text and pictorial health warnings covering 60 percent of both the front and back of the pack. Other qualitative health information must occupy 70 percent of one side panel of tobacco product packages. Misleading packaging and labeling, including terms such as “light” and “low tar” and other signs, is prohibited.

Tobacco Taxation and Prices: The World Health Organization recommends raising tobacco excise taxes so that they account for at least 70 percent of retail prices. Tobacco excise taxes in Ecuador are below these recommendations.