Benin

Benin became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on February 1, 2006.

Smoke Free Places

Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places, indoor workplaces, and public transport.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship

The law prohibits nearly all forms of tobacco advertising and promotion, including point of sale product display. The law does not appear to restrict unpaid depiction of tobacco products or use, and the status of advertising by conventional mail, phone, and direct person-to-person communications is uncertain. All forms of tobacco sponsorship are prohibited.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling

Rotating combined picture and text warnings are required to cover 90 percent of the front and back of tobacco product packaging. Misleading packaging and labeling, including terms such as “light” and “mild” and other signs, is prohibited. 

Cigarette Contents and Disclosures

The law grants the authority to regulate the contents of cigarettes; however, no subsequent regulations have been issued. The law requires that manufacturers and importers disclose to government authorities information on the contents and emissions of their products.

Sales Restrictions

The law prohibits the sale of single cigarettes, small packs of cigarettes, and tobacco products by vending machine and internet. Tobacco sales in, and within 500 meters of, education, healthcare, athletic, cultural, and administrative facilities are prohibited. The sale of tobacco products is prohibited to persons under the age of 18.

Roadmap to Tobacco Control Legislation

Law No. 2017-27 is the primary law regulating restrictions on smoking in public places; tobacco advertising, promotion, sponsoring; packaging and labeling of tobacco products; cigarette contents and disclosures; and sales restrictions on tobacco products. This law supersedes any conflicting provisions in prior laws, particularly Law No. 2006-12 and its implementing regulations. Decree No. 2021-0065 contains the health warnings required to appear on tobacco product packaging. Decree No. 2022-073 (as amended) prohibits internet sales of tobacco products and e-cigarettes, among other measures.

Review Status

This country’s legal measures were reviewed by our legal staff in consultation with in-country lawyers or tobacco control experts.