Canada warns travellers of strict public smoking laws in Antigua and Barbuda

Canadian authorities have warned travellers to Antigua and Barbuda that smoking or vaping in public places could lead to arrest and court action, as enforcement of existing laws appears to be tightening.

In an updated travel advisory issued March 16, officials said smoking tobacco, cannabis and other controlled substances in public is illegal, and violations could result in legal penalties.

The warning follows similar guidance issued by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on March 13.

Officials noted that visitors are required to follow local laws, and recent reports suggest police in Antigua and Barbuda have moved toward stricter enforcement of longstanding anti-smoking regulations.

The country’s Tobacco Control Act of 2018 outlines restrictions on public smoking, while a 2024 amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act increased penalties for cannabis possession and removed provisions for issuing violation tickets.

Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have not publicly detailed when the stricter enforcement began or how frequently penalties are being applied.

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