Chilean legislators approved a new anti-smoking law on 14 March 2006 in a major step toward cutting the habit in a country where more than 40 per cent of the people smoke.

Chile's lower house, the Chamber of Deputies, approved the law after more than a year of debate.The law limits smoking – but stops short of banning it outright – in bars, restaurants and other public places. It prohibits the sale of cigarettes within 100 yards (metres) of schools.
Under the law, advertising for cigarettes is limited and half the surface of cigarette packs must be printed with warnings about the dangers of smoking. Tobacco companies, restaurants, bars and other public places have up to 18 months to comply with the new rules. Legislators started debating the rules last March, when Chile made a commitment to the World Health Organisation to bring anti-smoking legislation in line with that of other member countries. (pi)