The Government today published in the Gazette three pieces of subsidiary legislation to take forward a new phase of the ten measures for tobacco control, including establishing specific statutory requirements for the plain packaging of conventional smoking products and updating the health warnings on the packaging in tandem.

They will be tabled at the Legislative Council for the negative vetting procedure on October 7, and the measures prescribed will take effect on March 1, 2027, with a nine-month transitional period before full implementation on December 1, 2027. 

Plain packaging will remove brand logos, various colours and decorative elements – including slogans and signs on the packaging – fundamentally undermining the brand effect. This has already been implemented in 27 countries and regions and experience has proven that it effectively reduces smoking prevalence.

The Government will also update the content of the 12 health warnings that have been in use for eight years to further strengthen their deterrent effect, highlighting disabilities, disfigurement and a significant decrease in the quality of life caused by relevant diseases.

Additionally, as some tobacco companies use so-called "light" and "low tar" descriptions to lure consumers, the requirement to print tar and nicotine yields on the packaging has been removed to avoid misunderstanding.

The Government stated that plain packaging and duty stamps complement each other. The former reduces the attractiveness of tobacco products on the demand front, while the latter combats illicit cigarettes on the supply front.