Tobacco dealers to ‘cough up’ cash for new licence

(CNS): While smoking was banned in public places from the beginning of 2010, tobacco dealers had a further twelve months to comply with the requirement in the lawfor them to register. However, all dealers will need to have a Certificate of Registration (similar to a Trade and Business License) before 1 January 2011. Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kiran Kumar will host tobacco dealers’ awareness sessions this week to help them prepare for general Tobacco Law compliance, government officials said. The yearly registration fees are CI$500 for a retailer; CI$750 for a cigar bar, and CI$5,000 for a wholesale distributor or importer.

According to the law, everyone dealing with tobacco products must register annually and display the Certificate of Registration. In order to continue operating legally Cayman’s tobacco dealers must be registered before the start of next year and the Public Health Department is encouraging them to submit their applications by 1 November 2010.