According to a press release from the Government of Canada, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health, announced new regulations for plain and standardized appearance of tobacco packages and products will begin to come into force on November 9, 2019. According to the press release, “These packages and products are powerful promotional vehicles. Reducing the appeal of tobacco products is an important step toward protecting Canadians, particularly youth, from inducements to using tobacco products and from the consequent dependence on them. ”
According to the Minister of Health, “We have fulfilled our commitment to implement plain packaging requirements for tobacco products. The evidence is overwhelming that plain packaging is an effective way to drive down tobacco use, especially among young people. Reducing the rate of smoking among Canadians is a top priority for us.”
The movement for plain packaging began with bill S-5 back in 2018 where the bill received Royal Assent which paved the way for its implementation.
All tobacco products being shipped or produced for sale in Canada will require plain packaging beginning November 9th, 2019 which could create a short-term shortage as companies race to meet requirements and retailers will have until Feb 7, 2022 to sell off all remaining inventory of traditional packaging.
Image via Health Canada
Image via Health Canada
