News in a minute | South Africa struggles with high smoking rate [video]

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South Africa’s smoking rate in 2025 remains stubbornly high. This is the finding from a non-profit organisation called Smoke Free Sweden. According to data released on their social media channels, South Africa’s smoking rate in 2025 sits at more than 25%. That’s a quarter of the total population still smoking harmful tobacco products.

Meanwhile, a nation like New Zealand – with a broadly similar economic makeup and population – has seen its smoking rate in 2025 drop to just 6.8%. In an insightful report contrasting the two countries approaches, it says New Zealand is a leading example of harm reduction and safer alternatives.

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SOUTH AFRICAN SMOKING RATE IN 2025

Smoke Free Sweden explains that both nations suffered from high cigarette smoking in the past. And yet, New Zealand is close to becoming the first nation worldwide to attain a 5% smoking rate in 2025. In contrast, South Africa remains stubbornly addicted to tobacco products. In 2021, 30% of South Africa’s adult population smoked.

SOUTH AFRICA’S SMOKING RATE IN 2025 REMAINS HIGH

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