Jordan Joins International Effort to Combat Illicit Tobacco Trade

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced Jordan's accession to the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, which was issued on November 12, 2012. Health Minister Firas Hawari told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that Jordan's accession to the Protocol on July 25 signifies the country's commitment to international measures aimed at combating tobacco smuggling and illicit trade. Hawari emphasized that this move is part of Jordan's national efforts to combat tobacco use in all its forms and aligns with royal directives. He noted that this accession is a key indicator of the success of the National Action Plan 2024-2026, stemming from the National Strategy to Combat Tobacco and Smoking 2024-2030. "This accession reflects Jordan's dedication to strengthening global efforts and improving public health," said Hawari. "It enhances the effectiveness of our health policies in eliminating all forms of illicit trade in tobacco products." Hawari highlighted several benefits of joining the protoc ol, including improved cooperation with other countries in combating smuggling, enhanced monitoring through tracking systems to ensure legal supply chains, strengthened national legislation, and the implementation of awareness programs about the health and economic impacts of smuggling. The protocol is based on Article 15 of the Framework Convention, to which Jordan was one of the first signatories. This article addresses the threats posed by illicit trade and outlines the measures countries must take to prevent it. The protocol aims to enhance international cooperation, exchange information, and implement effective measures to combat tobacco smuggling. Jordan's accession to the Protocol will take effect on October 23, in accordance with Article 45, paragraph 2, of the Protocol. Source: Jordan News Agency