Hong Kong's smoking prevalence rate is among the lowest in the world. The Government's policy is to discourage smoking, to educate the public, particularly the young, on the health risks involved, to contain proliferation of cigarette advertising, and to protect the public from passive smoking to the maximum possible extend.
Smoking is a complex social phenomenon.
Legislation, publicity and public education all play a part in its control. Although the overall incidence of smoking is still low, the rate among teenagers and women are rising. There is no room for complacency. The Ordinance has been amended from time to time, with the latest amendments being made in 1997. The Amendment Ordinance includes a number of measures to further control the sale of tobacco products and tobacco promotion , and to facilitate the designation of more indoor no-smoking areas.