Canadian travellers planning a trip to Antigua and Barbuda are being warned to follow strict local laws banning smoking in public places.
The Government of Canada recently updated its travel advisory for the Caribbean destination, alerting visitors that smoking tobacco, cannabis or other controlled substances in public areas is illegal.
According to the updated warning, anyone caught smoking in public could face arrest and be required to appear in court.
The advisory was updated on March 16 as authorities in Antigua and Barbuda reportedly began strictly enforcing the law after previously taking a more relaxed approach.
Officials say travellers must respect local laws while visiting other countries, and violations can result in serious legal consequences.
The restrictions stem from the country’s Tobacco Control Act 2018, which established rules limiting where smoking is permitted.
More recently, amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act increased penalties related to cannabis possession and removed provisions that previously allowed violation tickets.
Authorities have not yet confirmed how the new enforcement measures will be applied or what penalties tourists could face.
The warning comes as Antigua and Barbuda continues to attract international visitors with its beaches and islands, including places like Great Bird Island off Antigua’s coast.
Canadian officials advise travellers to review local laws carefully before visiting the country to avoid potential fines, arrest or court proceedings.