Local tobacco dealers are compliant, says minister

(CNS): Following the passage of legislation governing the sale of tobacco products in the Cayman Islands, dealers now need to be registered to sell cigarettes, cigars and other products and the health minister has said there has been a high degree of compliance with the law. Merchants were required to register from last year and there are now 153 tobacco dealers plying their trade officially in Cayman. “Business owners continue to be compliant with the law and its provisions and we wish to see this trend continue,” said Mark Scotland as the deadline for registration renewals for 2013 approaches.

Those wishing to continue selling tobacco have one more month left before the deadline for registration for 2013, officials from the health ministry said Monday.

“If anyone has any doubts about the legislation, or if anyone is still selling tobacco products without a registration certificate, please contact the Public Health Department to avoid prosecution,” he added.

Applications submitted after 1 November and up to 31 December will attract a late fee of an additional 50% of the registration fee. Applications submitted after 31 December and up to 31 January will attract a late fee of an additional 100% of the registration fee. If no application for renewal is received by 31 January, dealers will have to cease operation for 12 months before submitting a new application. The annual registration renewal fees are CI$500 for a retailer; CI$750 for a cigar bar, and CI$5,000 for a wholesale distributor.

Dealers need a completed renewal application form and a current Trade and Business License Certificate for renewal of registration. A form must also be completed for any changes in dealership since the last registration, such as contact information, location, ownership or trade of products.

“According to the Tobacco Law, everyone dealing with tobacco products must register annually and display the Certificate of Registration (similar to a Trade and Business License). Also, failing to re-new the registration in time will attract late fees,” Medical Officer of Health Dr Kiran Kumar advised.

Application forms and guidelines are available from the Ministry of Health and Health Services Authority’s website on www.ministryofhealth.gov.ky  and www.hsa.ky.  For further information contact Sarah Hetley, Tobacco Registrar, Public Health Department, Cayman Islands Hospital on 244-2889 or email at sarah.hetley@hsa.ky.