Analysis
The law requires that the health warning and photograph on each package be no less than 50% of the surface area. Health warnings must consist of text messages in Spanish as well as images and pictograms. At least ten health warnings, images and pictograms are to be used. Similar warnings on both sides will not be permitted. These will be rotated every two years.
On packages with a cuboid, rectangular, cylindrical or irregular shape, the health warning message and graphic image together must cover at least 50% of the surface area. Diagrams are provided to illustrate the placement on the various shapes. Where size or shape causes distortion of the images, one, two or more images are to be included sequentially, each one with its respective health warning text. Where size or shape causes distortion of the images, one, two or more images are to be included sequentially, each one with its respective health warning text.
Where material of the package or wrapping is metal or plastic, the law requires the health warning (image and text) to be affixed to the surface with an adhesive decal in the same sizes and sequence.
Where the material is wood, cardboard or paper, the law requires the health warning (image and text) to be printed on bond or ledger paper and affixed to the package with glue, and prohibits the detaching or ripping away of this paper.
The law aligns with FCTC Art. 11 and the FCTC Art. 11 Guidelines with respect to the size, content, placement, and rotation of health warnings.
