Smokers in hospitals, schools to be fined heavily

Punishments will be implemented by inter-agency inspection teams that include the sectors of health, market surveillance, police and local people's committees.

Currently, management boards of public places such as schools, hospitals, and stations are not allowed to fine smokers. As a result, the Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harm has not been effectively implemented even though it has been effective since 2013.

This year, the health sector in Hồ Chí Minh City aims to ensure that 80% of administrative agencies and 90% of schools are free from smoking.