Shanghai is taking bold steps to combat “walking smoke,” a term used to describe the secondhand smoke generated when people walk while smoking in public spaces. In mid-March, the city launched an initiative targeting this issue at eight popular tourist destinations, including the Bund, Nanjing Road, and Xintiandi.
A recent survey of 10,000 residents found that nearly 60% frequently encounter “walking smoke,” with 90% expressing strong disapproval. While Shanghai’s smoking rate has decreased from almost 27% in 2010 to 19.2% today, exposure to secondhand smoke remains a significant concern, especially in crowded public areas.
To address this, Shanghai is implementing smoke-free zones accompanied by advocacy and enforcement measures. At key locations, volunteers are reminding smokers to comply with regulations, and businesses are displaying no-smoking signs to raise awareness. The initiative is supported by local authorities and health agencies, with regular campaigns aimed at educating the public about the risks of secondhand smoke.
Since September 2024, Shanghai has established standards for outdoor smoking areas. These areas are prohibited in crowded locations and must be at least six meters away from building entrances. Additionally, they cannot exceed six square meters and are not permitted to have seating or vending machines, discouraging prolonged smoking.
Currently, enforcement efforts focus on public awareness. However, Shanghai’s smoking control regulations allow for fines of up to 200 yuan for individuals and 30,000 yuan for businesses that violate smoking bans. Members of the public can report violations through the 12345 hotline. If smoking occurs in areas where minors gather, offenders may also face penalties under child protection laws.
Other cities are also tightening controls on public smoking. In Beijing, smoking is prohibited in queues, with fines of up to 200 yuan. The Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions impose strict bans near public elevators, bus stops, and beaches, with fines up to 1,500 Hong Kong dollars and 1,500 Macao patacas, respectively.
China’s “Healthy China 2030” plan aims to strengthen tobacco control through pricing, taxation, and legislation, calling for clearer responsibilities in enforcement. The nationwide effort reflects a growing commitment to public health and reducing the risks associated with secondhand smoke.
