Timor-Leste became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on March 22, 2005.

Smoke Free Places: Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public places, workplaces, and on public transportation, but is permitted in designated smoking areas in certain places, including airports, government facilities, and boats intended for transportation of passengers.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship: The law prohibits many forms of tobacco advertising and promotion, with exceptions for point of sale product display. However, at times, the scope of the restriction is unclear. At points of sale, products may not be displayed where they are directly accessible to consumers, though visibility is allowed. There are some restrictions on tobacco sponsorship, but it is unclear whether publicity of permitted sponsorship is prohibited under the law.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling: All tobacco product packaging must display one of six combined text and pictorial health warnings covering 85 percent of the front and 100 percent of the back of the package. In addition, a text warning must cover 100 percent of the top and and at least 80 percent of the bottom of the package. Misleading packaging and labeling, including terms such as “light” and “less tar” and other signs, is prohibited.

Tobacco Taxation and Prices: The World Health Organization recommends raising tobacco excise taxes so that they account for at least 70 percent of retail prices. Tobacco excise taxes in Timor-Leste are well below these recommendations.