Japan’s smoking ban is a sham

The Japanese city of Osaka has banned smoking on the streets in an apparent effort to smarten up the city and make it more ‘visitor-friendly’ ahead of this year’s World Expo, which begins in April. Smoking had been prohibited in six zones, including around the central station prior to the announcement. But on Monday, all public streets, buildings, parks and plazas in the city became smoke free. Smoking and vaping in all but the smallest eateries has been banned too, though designated smoking rooms will still be permitted.

The fact that the smoking ban is getting significantly more coverage than the Expo itself highlights the difficulties organisers have had in rousing interest in the looming jamboree. It suggests the ban might just be a desperate attempt to grab a bit of global attention. The Expo has been a flop so far, with the public mood consistently negative.