GCC tobacco levies to go up

The Gulf Co-operation Council's (GCC) anti-tobacco committee has resolved to increase custom duties on tobacco to curb its use and protect people from its hazards – being the main cause of many fatal diseases.

The resolution was issued at the 19th meeting of the GCC anti-tobacco committee, which was held yesterday at Dubai Flora Creek hotel.

Dr Ali Ahmed bin Shakr, Director-General of the Ministry of Health, said the meeting was held upon a request from the executive office of the GCC Council of the Health Ministers to study the latest on the anti-tobacco programme.

Shakr said the UAE has fared well in the anti-tobacco programme, adding "the ministry works with competent authorities to spread awareness about unhealthy practices". He cited that decision to ban smoking at public places.

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