The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) is working with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force to crack down on these harmful products like vape smoke and the growing use of ‘Copen’ amongst students. 

The move was announced as a strong warning against the use of tobacco and nicotine products, particularly among youth, as part of World No Tobacco Day 2025 on Friday.

Under the theme “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products,” the Ministry called out tobacco companies for targeting young people with sweet flavours, flashy packaging, and social media influencers.

The ministry urged families, schools, and communities to unite in protecting children from addiction. 

The Ministry shared key data to highlight the danger. In 2011, 41.2% of students had tried cigarettes, with many starting before the age of 10. 

Nearly 80% of students were exposed to second-hand smoke in public, while the 2015 STEPS Survey showed that 37% of adults were smokers. 

Tobacco use causes around 15 deaths each month in Solomon Islands.

In response, the government plans to strengthen the Tobacco Act 2010, ban all advertising, sponsorship, and promotion of tobacco and nicotine products, and create smoke-free zones in public places and schools. 

It also aims to raise taxes and licensing fees, prevent industry interference and misleading corporate responsibility campaigns, require annual reports from tobacco companies, and boost public education on the dangers of tobacco and nicotine.

The ministry appeals to all sectors of society to get involved—parents, teachers, health workers, churches, and community leaders.

“You deserve the truth. You deserve a healthy future,” she said to young people. “Don’t be fooled by the lies of the tobacco industry.”

The Ministry’s message is clear: ‘Say no to tobacco. Say yes to a healthier Solomon Islands.’