Compliance to select sections of cigarettes and other tobacco products act (COTPA) around PoS and perception of tobacco vendors about tobacco control policies and vendor licensing: A mixed method study from four districts of a South Indian state

Abstract

Problem considered

Tobacco control is challenging due to the easy availability of tobacco products and the sub-optimal implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). Preventing tobacco uptake and controlling sales requires innovative approaches. The study was conducted to assess compliance with relevant sections of COTPA and understand the perception of tobacco vendors about tobacco control policies, including the new vendor licensing initiative.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate compliance with section 4, 5, 6 and 20 of COTPA across four city corporations of Karnataka using a checklist at the point of sale (PoS). A fixed point was randomly chosen in each city corporation, and the research team visited consecutive shops in a clockwise direction until the required number was reached. A qualitative study using in-depth interviews was conducted among vendors selling tobacco products to understand their perception of current tobacco control policies and vendor licensing.

Results

Out of 1379 shops surveyed across four city corporations of Karnataka, 616 (44.6 %) were selling tobacco products. Compliance to various provisions of section 4,5,6 and 20 of COTPA was suboptimal. Vendors said that only strict implementation of COTPA provisions can aid in tobacco control. Vendors displayed a positive attitude toward the new vendor licensing law. They emphasized the requirement of a simple procedure and expected the tobacco industry to support them in obtaining the license. Vendors opined that a higher fee for licensing could act as a deterrent to continue tobacco sales.

Conclusion

The survey highlights significant tobacco sales among shops in Karnataka, with nearly half involved. Despite suboptimal compliance with COTPA provisions, vendors show willingness to adhere if strictly enforced. Positive reception towards the new vendor licensing law suggests a streamlined process could enhance compliance. However, vendors' expectation of support from the tobacco industry for licensing requires caution, as it may influence tobacco control measures. Higher licensing fees might discourage tobacco sales, aiding control efforts.