Turkey stubs out anti-social menace

Many prospective Turkey investors and expats will (literally) be breathing a little easier today…

Smoking has now been banned from most enclosed public spaces in Turkey but smokers can still light up in cafes, Bars and restaurants for another year.

The law, which builds on a ban affecting some public transport, also prohibits smoking in outdoor venues such as playgrounds and stadiums. It aims to both discourage smoking and reduce secondary smoke health risks.

About 40% of adults - 25 million people - are smokers, making Turkey one of the world's hardest-smoking countries. The new ban, which started at midnight (2100 GMT) on Sunday, applies to government offices, workplaces, shopping malls, schools and hospitals.

All forms of public transport, including trains, taxis and ferries, will also be affected but there will be exemptions for special zones in psychiatric hospitals and prisons. Cafes, Bars and restaurants will enjoy a transition period until they too come under the ban in July 2009.

For non-smoking property investors, the ban will instantly make Turkey a more attractive investment destination.