South Africa, Feb. 19 -- Beyond standardised packaging, governments are introducing complementary policies such as flavour bans, restrictions on retail displays, nicotine limits, environmental regulations and traceability systems to combat illicit trade. These initiatives are designed to curb the tobacco industry's ability to market products through visual cues or sensory appeal, particularly those that attract young people and first-time smokers.

The global trends

According to the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), as of February 2024, 42 countries and territories had implemented measures moving towards plain packaging, with 25 having adopted the measure, three having it in practice, and 14 in the process of implementation.

The CCS report...