Osaka Implements Citywide Smoking Ban Ahead of Expo 2025
TOKYO, Jan 27 — In a bold move to create a more welcoming environment for international visitors, Osaka has officially implemented a citywide smoking ban on public streets ahead of Expo 2025. This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more visitor-friendly experience during the world-renowned event.
With around 160 countries and regions set to participate in Expo 2025, Osaka Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama emphasized the importance of a smoke-free city. “The World Expo begins in April. We want to welcome people from across the globe and make Osaka a city where everyone feels safe on smoke-free streets,” Yokoyama said earlier this month.
Previously, smoking was restricted to six designated zones, including areas around Osaka Station. As of today, the ban extends citywide, with violators facing a fine of 1,000 yen (approximately $6.40). Although Japan’s local regulations already discourage smoking while walking, resistance from lawmakers has delayed the introduction of stricter nationwide policies.
In addition to the street-smoking ban, Osaka is tightening its indoor smoking rules. Starting in April, eateries with seating areas larger than 30 square meters (320 square feet) will prohibit smoking, except in separate designated spaces such as smoking rooms. This builds on existing national regulations that ban smoking in dining establishments over 100 square meters.
Challenges Facing Expo 2025
Despite the city’s efforts to prepare for Expo 2025, the event has faced significant challenges, including slow ticket sales and budget concerns. By early January, only 7.5 million tickets had been sold, falling short of the organizers’ target of 15 million for the six-month event.
Osaka’s move mirrors similar initiatives in Tokyo, which banned smoking in all restaurants in 2018 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. However, outdoor smoking remains permitted in certain districts of the capital.
Declining Tobacco Use in Japan
Japan has seen a steady decline in tobacco use, aligning with global trends. In 2023, the smoking rate dropped to 15.7 percent. However, tobacco remains a significant revenue source, generating two trillion yen ($13 billion) annually for central and local governments. The Japanese government also retains a one-third stake in Japan Tobacco, the world’s third-largest tobacco company.
Osaka’s citywide ban represents a step toward a more progressive and health-conscious Japan, as the country continues to balance its economic interests in tobacco with growing public health priorities. — AFP