Knesset panel advances amendment that requires graphic showing smoking’s harm on all smoking products

The Knesset Economic Affairs Committee chaired by MK David Bitan votes unanimously to approve a second and third reading in Knesset of an amendment to the law outlawing advertising and limiting the marketing of tobacco products.

The new amendment would require graphics showing the health damage caused by smoking on all smoking products.

In the committee discussion, importers of tobacco, cigarettes, and other smoking products argued against the change, claiming that the move would only increase illegal commerce by 20 percent. Importers and sellers of e-cigarettes and vaping products pointed out that other countries do not require graphic warnings on these products.

Representatives of anti-smoking groups hit back by saying that the graphic warnings should not only be on individual cigarette packs but also on cartons, which usually contain multiple packs.

The amendment, originally introduced by Likud MK Osher Shekalim, will go to the Knesset plenary for a second and third vote. Should it pass, the health minister will be responsible for implementing its requirements.