As of 1 July 2006, the new law on tobacco control takes effect in Latvia. Smoking will be prohibited in all types of public cultural, educational, sport, health and catering establishments, except in places specially alloted for the purpose.

Smoking rooms in restaurants, bars and cafés must be equipped with forced ventilation and cover no less than half of the facility’s area. According to local press, many eateries have already chosen to introduce a total ban on smoking, rather than install expensive equipment. Some of the new anti-tobacco regulations have been in force since 1 January, e.g. ban on smoking in all public places, including public transport, stops, work places, as well as within 10 metres from the premises of state and local authorities. Long-distance trains and ships must provide special smoking carriages, cabins or parlours. (vt)