AssetID: 54471406
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: Osaka Expands Smoking Ban as City Prepares for Expo 2025
Caption: Osaka Expands Smoking Ban as City Prepares for Expo 2025. Osaka has implemented a strict smoking ban in public areas as it prepares to host Expo 2025, aiming to enhance safety, cleanliness, and its image as an international destination. As of January 27, smoking is prohibited on roads, parks, plazas, and other public spaces. The ban applies to both cigarettes and vapes, with violators facing a fine of 1,000 yen ($6). Officials stated that expanding smoke-free areas will create a safer and more comfortable environment for both residents and tourists during the six-month global event. National regulations prohibit smoking in offices, restaurants, and public transport. While under-20s are banned from smoking, many public places still offer designated smoking rooms. The WHO reports Japan’s smoking population has halved over two decades, from 32% in 2000 to 16% in 2022. The health ministry aims to further reduce it to 12%. While Japan’s smoking rate sits at 14.8%, nearly 20% of US adults still use tobacco products, according to the CDC’s 2022 data. City officials have created a detailed map highlighting areas where smoking is still permitted, ensuring clarity for residents and visitors. Tokyo implemented similar anti-smoking measures ahead of the 2020 Olympics, which have stayed in effect since the Games concluded. Osaka has invested $1.16 billion into infrastructure and event preparations for Expo 2025, which will feature 158 participating countries from April 13 to October 13. With its ongoing urban transformation, Osaka and the Kansai region have been named one of CNN Travel’s 25 top places to visit in 2025. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Health & Wellbeing,Osaka,Public Areas,Prepares,Destination,International,Violators,Line,Host,Expo 2025,Parks,Cigarettes,Vapes,Roads,Plazas,Smoke,2nd Hand Smoke,Cleanliness,Japan,Public Health
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