Majority of the population in favor of tobacco advertising ban

The public is thus in line with the Federal Council’s position: The Federal Council proposes banning tobacco advertising on billboards, in the media, and in movie theaters. Sponsorship of events with an international focus would also be prohibited. Advertising at points of sale, in trade publications, and in customer mailings, as well as the sponsorship of national events, would continue to be permitted. In the coming weeks or months, the Federal Council will submit the Tobacco Products Act to Parliament. During the consultation process, its proposals drew criticism. The Swiss Trade Association and organizations representing the tobacco and advertising industries oppose restrictions, while prevention organizations are calling for a total ban on advertising.

53 percent in favor of a total ban on advertising

Bans appear to have majority support among the public: 53 percent favor a general ban on tobacco advertising, as the FOPH announced on Tuesday. As many as 64 percent even support a ban with an exception for points of sale. A majority of smokers also support this measure. According to the FOPH, advertising bans receive stronger support in French-speaking and Italian-speaking Switzerland than in German-speaking Switzerland. In addition, more women than men are in favor of a general ban. The public also supports higher prices, according to the Federal Office. Fifty-eight percent would welcome an increase in the price per pack from the current 8.20 francs to 9.10 francs within a year. Smokers, however, have a different opinion on this point. They clearly oppose the price increase.

Diminishing Effect of Warning Images

According to the FOPH, the 2014 monitoring report also shows that the impact of the warning labels and images on cigarette packs is diminishing. In 2014, 38 percent of respondents stated that the warnings often or occasionally prompted them to think about the harmful effects of smoking. In 2012, that figure had been 45 percent. The Federal Office of Public Health has been tracking public opinion on tobacco advertising since 2004. In its press release, it points out that tobacco advertising on billboards and in movie theaters is banned in all neighboring countries except Germany. Germany is the only country in the EU, aside from Bulgaria, where outdoor advertising for cigarettes is still permitted. However, the federal government is planning a ban. (SDA)