New paper on retail environment regulations: a case study in Egypt

05 March 2025, at 11:48.

A new paper by Dr. Raouf Alebshehy and Sherif Elmitwalli of the TCRG examines the impact of retail regulations on reducing tobacco availability in Egypt, particularly near youth-oriented facilities. The researchers tested six measures, including limiting retailer density and banning sales in certain locations, and found that some measures could almost eliminate tobacco sales in these key locations within a determined distance of youth-oriented facilities. The findings highlight the potential of stronger retail regulations to curb tobacco availability and calls on policymakers to take action.

Lead author Raouf Alebshehy said:

“Our study provides clear evidence that regulating tobacco retailers can drastically reduce tobacco and nicotine presence, particularly near youth facilities. Policymakers should consider these measures as effective tools to limit future generations’ access to tobacco and protect them from industry influence”

Read the paper:

Effects of retail environment regulations on reducing tobacco retailers and operating hours: a case study in Egypt, R. Alebshehy, R. Ibrahim, S. Elmitwalli, Tobacco Control, 2025;0:1–5, doi:10.1136/tc-2024-058995