The National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) presented the concept paper, supported by scientific research, to Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa and the Ministry of Health for legal action.
The document, prepared under the guidance of NATA Chairman Specialist Dr. Ananda Ratnayake and LL Amila Isuru of the Rajarata University Faculty of Medicine, also includes recommendations to amend and strengthen the NATA Act.
The proposal outlines two main measures: updating existing regulations under the NATA Act and banning access to tobacco products for all persons born after a specified year, in line with global trends.
Minister Jayatissa welcomed the initiative, stating that tobacco and alcohol remain major barriers to securing a healthier future for children. He also instructed NATA to submit detailed proposals for legislative amendments.
Dr. Ananda noted that nearly 80% of deaths in Sri Lanka are caused by non-communicable diseases, with tobacco and alcohol among the leading risk factors.
He added that Sri Lanka records around 22,000 deaths annually linked to tobacco and alcohol use, while both substances also create serious economic and social impacts.
Amila Isuru warned of increasing cigarette use among schoolchildren and stressed that reducing usage and limiting access are the most effective ways to protect future generations.
