Tobacco sales in kiosks and grocery stores banned
Tobacco product sales in public places such as supermarkets, kiosks, and major markets in Saudi Arabia have been suggested for a ban by the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing. Trending: Saudi Arabia bans multiple entry visas for the nationals of 14 countries
The ministry has posted this and other preliminary suggestions on the public survey platform Istitlaa in an effort to get people’s thoughts and feelings about the matter before finalizing them.
The selling of tobacco products is subject to multiple regulations included in the proposed rules. Products containing tobacco must meet the requirements set out by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) in order for them to be sold legally.
All tobacco items must be stored in locked drawers so that they are completely invisible to anyone visiting the business location.
No one under the age of 18 can purchase tobacco, and the vendor should demand identification from the customer proving they are at least eighteen years old, according to the proposed regulations. Most Viewed: The first day of Ramadan 2025 is likely to be on this date
Above the cash register, in a highly visible location, there must be a warning notice that displays the negative effects of smoking.
The sale of tobacco products to anybody under the age suggested in the Anti-Smoking Law shall be prohibited, and a warning phrase that states, “Smoking and tobacco products are a major cause of diseases and cancer of the mouth, lungs, heart, and arteries,” is required.
Prohibition of tobacco product advertising and promotion was also included in the proposed regulations. There must be explanatory signs that indicate “No Smoking” to ensure that all employees and visitors understand that smoking is not allowed inside the facility.
The proposals state that energy drinks must be kept in special refrigerators or on shelves that are specifically for them, away from other food and drink items. Read: Saudi Arabia’s Rail network to exceed 8000 km
Additionally, a sign containing the warning text from the package must be posted on the shelf or in the refrigerator where these drinks are sold. No one under the age of 16 may purchase energy drinks, according to a posted sign.
Supermarkets and grocery stores are required to adhere to certain regulations, such as not closing off parking spaces that were approved in the building permit and not putting up warning signs or other measures to discourage parking in front of their stores, facilities, or public parking lots.
The ban on placing any commodities or products on the facility floor was particularly highlighted in the draft regulations. You need to make sure that the lowest shelves are at least 15 cm off the ground. Visible signboards explaining the facility’s subdivisions according to product and activity divisions are required.
If a home delivery service is offered, the appropriate permissions need to be acquired in line with the rules and guidelines. A specific spot inside the building, near the main entrance, must be reserved for shopping carts in case they are introduced. See Also: Saudi Arabia announces February 22 as a holiday for Public, private and non-profit sectors
Concerning the necessary qualifications for employees, they stated that “all workers in food handling must be in good health.” It is imperative that the worker be free of any skin disorders, injuries that are visible or wounds that may leak fluids, and that they do not experience a runny nose. A superficial, clean, and bandaged wound, however, does not prohibit labor.
The draft rules highlighted that if an employee exhibits symptoms of a severe infectious intestinal disease like diarrhea, fever, or vomiting, or if he is found to be infected with a food-borne disease like cholera, hepatitis, or typhoid fever, the food establishment is obligated to terminate his employment. Follow Saudi Expatriates News on Telegram
