Business
The case for banning single stick cigarettes: Options for effective implementation
New IPS Policy Discussion Brief –
A new IPS study finds that a ban on single stick cigarettes would significantly reduce smoking prevalence in Sri Lanka as it will likely minimise smoking amongst minors, lower income groups and the remaining groups of smokers (‘last mile’ smokers) in the country.
107 countries, including several Asian countries, have already taken steps to ban single stick sales.
The study recommends amending Sri Lanka’s current tobacco legislation as the most appropriate legislative approach to banning single stick sales.
Effective implementation and monitoring are crucial for ensuring compliance and effectiveness of any single stick sales ban.
A new study conducted by the Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka (IPS) calls for a ban on single stick cigarettes to reduce tobacco consumption in the country. The study notes that despite Sri Lanka’s progress in implementing most of the tobacco control measures, there are some critical demand and supply reduction measures that Sri Lanka has not introduced yet. One such important measure is banning the sale of single stick cigarettes. In this regard, the study recommends that the most appropriate legislative approach for Sri Lanka is to amend the country’s current tobacco legislation or the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) Act.
The study titled ‘The Case for Banning Single Stick Cigarettes: Options for Effective Implementation’ is authored by Dilani Hirimuthugodage and Nimesha Dissanayaka. The authors examine the behaviour of smokers in purchasing single sticks and identify enforcement options for banning sales of single stick cigarettes, using a mix of key informant interviews, non-participatory observational surveys, and selected case studies (Thailand, Norway, Pakistan, India and Mexico). The overarching objective of the study is to strengthen the evidence on the likely impact and effective implementation of the proposed single stick ban.
The authors find that the implementation of the ban on single stick cigarettes would have a significant impact on reducing smoking prevalence in Sri Lanka as it will likely reduce smoking amongst minors, lower income groups and the ‘last mile’ of smokers in the country. Around the world, 107 countries, including Asian countries, have already taken several steps to ban single stick cigarette sales. The most common policy adopted was to have specific laws or legislations to ban the selling of single stick cigarettes. The case study analysis suggests that effective implementation and monitoring are important to ensure the success of, and compliance with, any ban on single stick sales.
The following policy reforms are recommended based on the study findings:
Legislative approach: Comparative research shows a range of approaches to banning the sale of single sticks (e.g., a specific ban on single sticks; minimum pack size; requirement that pictorial warnings are included on all sales, etc.). The evidence suggests that the effective approach for Sri Lanka could be introducing an amendment to the country’s current tobacco policy or the NATA Act.
Supplementary reform: Alongside a ban on single stick sales, the study recommends that the government effectively implements existing laws banning all forms of tobacco promotion, advertising, and sponsorship related to cigarettes. For example, single sticks should not be allowed to be distributed for free at events or concerts, and shops should not display adverts promoting single sticks.
Compliance/enforcement: If a legal ban is to successfully reduce tobacco consumption , it must be effectively implemented. Recognising the current widespread practice of selling single sticks, and the financial benefits (via commission) for retailers, it will be essential to ensure retailers are fully aware of the ban and policymakers should consider high penalties to deter non-compliance. In addition, Public Health Inspectors should be empowered to monitor the ban to reduce the risk of a black market emerging.
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”
US sports envoys to Lanka to champion youth development
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