SriLanka, Oct. 7 -- The tobacco industry could be the biggest financial loser if Sri Lanka introduces the proposed tobacco-free generation policy, as the measure would gradually prevent tobacco companies from accessing new generations of consumers, Dr. Dineth Bandara has argued.

Responding to criticism of the proposed policy, Dr. Bandara said the measure should be viewed in the context of the long-term impact of tobacco use on Sri Lankan society, rather than through concerns about an immediate disruption to the tobacco market.

The proposal would prohibit the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2010.

Dr. Bandara said that the measure would place the responsibility on sellers and would not criminalise young peo...