Turkey Plans Mandatory ID Checks for Cigarette Sales to Curb Youth Smoking

Health Minister Kemal Memisoglu announced plans for a new law requiring buyers to present ID when purchasing cigarettes, aiming to enforce the existing ban on sales to people under 18. The draft legislation is expected to be submitted to parliament within weeks and would apply nationwide, covering markets, buffets, cafes, and restaurants.

Memisoglu said the core goal of the bill is to reduce the visibility of tobacco in daily life, with new restrictions planned for parks, gardens, school surroundings, and sports areas. Rules for smoking and non-smoking sections in cafes and restaurants will also be clarified.

“The main essence of our draft law is to remove cigarettes from visibility. We are going for restrictions in certain areas.”

The minister highlighted a recent rise in smoking rates, particularly among young people and women, after years of decline following 2010 successes. He noted tobacco remains the root cause of diseases responsible for nearly 60 percent of deaths in Turkey.

To support cessation, the ministry provides free medication and operates over 1,700 cessation clinics plus mobile units, accessible via the 171 helpline.