Taiwan tightens public smoking rules

TAIPEI - Taiwan has banned smoking under covered walkways outside convenient stores and coffee shops in Taipei, New Taipei City and Kaohsiung, further restricting public smoking.

Effective on Sept 1, the ban covers 15 store chains in Taipei including FamilyMart, Hi-Life, Starbucks, 85°C, Mr. Brown and Dante. The ban will also be applied to around 3,700 convenience stores, coffee chains and fast-food restaurants in New Taipei City and Kaohsiung, according to the rule.

Those who break the rule will face a fine ranging from NT$2,000 (about $63.68) to NT$10,000.

Taiwan has already banned smoking in parks, green spaces and pavements outside schools.