Adult smoking prevalence rate in China 2000-2020

In 2020, over a quarter of China’s population aged 15 years and older were tobacco users. The share of tobacco users in the general population has been on a downward trend in the past decade, especially among male adults.

An important source of profit and tax

China has one of the world's most important tobacco markets. In 2021, the country's tobacco sector contributed more than 1.3 trillion yuan in profits and tax revenue, while creating many opportunities and employment along the value chain. Despite persistent calls for a reduction in the use of cigarettes in the country, China's tobacco market is still expanding. In recent years, e-cigarettes have also gained popularity in China, particularly appealing to younger smokers.

Health risks associated with tobacco use

Tobacco use has long-lasting and substantial health implications, including an increased risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. As a result, smoking has emerged as one of the most severe threats to public health in China, further straining the country's already under-resourced healthcare system. To reduce smoking and its impact on the country's population, several tobacco control legislations and rules are widely implemented in China, including bans on smoking in certain public spaces and prohibitions on tobacco advertisements.