A few decades ago business was nearly always done in a haze of smoke, with 65% of businessmen smoking through the 1960s, and almost no regulations limiting where cigarettes could be lit. Nowadays, car cigarette lighters have been replaced by USB ports and smoking on airplanes is long in the past.
You may even live somewhere with laws that mean you never see anyone smoking unless you visit a smoker’s private home. On the other hand, you may smoke yourself, and live in a country that provides space for it in most social locations.
Some of the strictest national smoking laws in the world are in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Australia, while countries such as France and India have more options for smoking in public spaces and inconsistent enforcement of what laws there are.
While many countries ban smoking in indoor spaces, or have smoking areas, the nature of these smoking areas can vary widely and may not protect non-smoking patrons entirely. For example, in Denmark, smoking is allowed in some smaller venues and bars, and on restaurant patios- meaning that smoke can easily drift to those who are sensitive. And in Japan, smoking areas are often glass-enclosed sections in the back of restaurants or cafes, sending smoke through to the front whenever anyone enters or exits.
The rising popularity of vaping and other forms of electronic tobacco have only made rules more complicated. Thailand, Singapore, and Brazil are just a few of the countries that have banned vaping completely, in large part due to its appeal among young smokers.
For those who wish to stay smoke-free but are trying to be polite in a culture that is more accepting of tobacco, this can present some etiquette challenges. Hosts may plan events in a smoke-friendly bar, or offer a cigar in a friendly gesture.
One way to prepare is by checking Living Abroad’s Smoking articles, located under Social Customs, to understand what kind of environment you might encounter when out for business meals. Business partners in your host country will no doubt be accommodating and find a suitable alternative as long as you let them know in advance- something our destination reports make simple.
Written by Kate Havas, GMS-T, Content Manager
