The Shanghai municipal government has released new regulations aiming to protect minors from tobacco and alcohol abuse.

Under the new regulations, businesses will not be permitted to sell cigarettes or alcohol to minors, reported China Radio International.

UNICEF and the World Health Organization have indicated that more young people in Shanghai are smoking and drinking alcohol, with 20 percent of middle school students having tried smoking and some becoming addicted. Alcohol abuse, however, does not appear to be a problem within the same age group.

Most Shanghai residents have warmly welcomed the restrictions. Some have added that parents should set a good example for their children, which can encourage young people to stay away from tobacco and alcohol.

Source: Xinhua