Three-sided booth trial underway as gov’t expands smoke-free zones

Among the nine designated smoking areas surrounding Alameda Dr. Carlos d’Assumpção in NAPE, one has been converted into a three-sided, roofless open-air smoking booth for a trial run, now in effect.

Macau has fully implemented a smoking ban in indoor public spaces. With the exception of approved smoking areas at the airport and casinos, smoking is strictly prohibited in all indoor public areas – including bus shelters and within a 10-meter radius of taxi stands. Violators may face a fine of up to MOP1,500.

Since early February, designated outdoor “smoke-free zones” have been established along the main road on Alameda Dr. Carlos d’Assumpção, marked by white dashed lines. These zones feature trash cans equipped with ashtrays, with smoking areas located alongside the main road.

According to the Health Bureau (SSM), warnings were issued to more than 40 people daily during the initial trial period – a number that has now dropped to just one or two per day. “Most residents are voluntarily complying with the regulations,” said Cheang Seng Ip, deputy director of the SSM.

No fully enclosed smoking rooms are currently under consideration. Instead, a three-sided, roofless smoking booth is being tested at the intersection of Alameda Dr. Carlos d’Assumpção and Rua de Londres. The booth accommodates three to four people, includes an ashtray and anti-smoking posters, and is designed to contain smoke and minimize youth exposure – all within legal limits.

Cheang further stated that authorities are analyzing data from the public consultation on the new Tobacco Prevention and Control Law, with a report expected in the first half of the year to guide legislative amendments. He also revealed plans to select high-traffic, spacious locations – such as the Ruins of St. Paul’s or Praça das Portas do Cerco – for future outdoor smoking-restricted zones, adopting a phased approach that tackles easier areas first. Once the amended law takes effect, a fine mechanism will be introduced, he added.