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Türkiye’s Health Ministry is preparing new legislation to tighten restrictions on smoking in indoor spaces, as part of a broader campaign against tobacco use, digital addiction, and unhealthy diets.
Health Minister Kemal Memisoglu said the proposed regulations on smoking in enclosed areas will reach parliament soon.
Speaking about the policy direction, Memisoglu said the government aims to make the fight against tobacco addiction more effective. He confirmed that legal work on indoor smoking rules is close to completion and will be submitted to lawmakers in the near term.
Türkiye already enforces a long standing ban on smoking in indoor public spaces. The new proposal signals a shift toward stricter enforcement and expanded coverage at a time when officials express concern about early smoking initiation among youth.
Details of the draft regulation indicate that smoking will no longer be allowed in semi enclosed areas of hospitality venues.
Under the planned rules, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues with retractable roof sections will also fall under the indoor smoking ban.
Memisoglu said smoking cessation clinics and mobile field teams will play a stronger role in supporting individuals who want to quit. He also framed tobacco control as a public responsibility rather than only an individual choice.
The ministry plans to combine legislative action with enforcement and awareness campaigns. Officials say further details of the regulation will be shared publicly once the draft reaches parliament.
The Health Ministry is also preparing parallel initiatives targeting excessive sugar consumption and unhealthy eating habits. Memisoglu stated that the Agriculture Ministry is participating in this work and that a joint plan will be announced soon.
He added that weight management programs will focus on healthy nutrition, movement, and exercise. Family health centers and healthy life centers will support this effort.
The broader policy framework aims to reduce lifestyle related health risks through regulation, prevention programs, and community engagement.
Türkiye’s smoking regulations since 2008
Türkiye has steadily expanded tobacco control laws over the past two decades.
Key milestones include:
The upcoming legislation would mark the next phase of this policy path.
Data from the 2025 Yesilay report shows the average age of starting smoking in Türkiye has dropped to 16. Some experts warn that children as young as 10 or 11 have begun smoking. Officials cite this trend as a key reason for strengthening legal restrictions and prevention measures.
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