China has banned smoking in schools, in the latest step in a government drive to kick the country's tobacco habit.
A tobacco shop in Shanghai. Photo: AFP (file)
Despite years of campaigning by opponents, China is the world's largest consumer of cigarettes and smokers can be spotted everywhere, even in schools and hospitals.
But with a huge public health burden looming ever larger, China has recently intensified efforts to stamp out smoking.
The latest ban, imposed by the Ministry of Education, covers kindergartens, elementary and middle schools, and vocational schools. Universities must set up smoking areas and forbid lighting up in academic buildings.
The government is aiming for a nationwide ban on smoking in public places this year and several cities have already introduced anti-smoking regulations.
Schools can no longer seek sponsorship from cigarette brands or post tobacco advertisements on campus, the ministry said in a notice.
School principals must enforce the ban by installing smoke alarms or surveillance cameras to spot offenders. School canteens must also stop selling tobacco.
Schools that do not crack down properly will be punished, the ministry said.
