Smokers worldwide are feeling the squeeze. Smoking in public places in the U.K. and USA received a lot of attention in the early-to-mid 2000s and led to widespread bans that continue to be upheld this day. It's almost actually taboo to smoke anymore. Yet, these bans affect the entire U.K. and USA population. What if England and America specifically targeted specific individuals and told them they were not allowed to light up? That would cause allegations of classicism, racism, and sexism to be thrown all over the place. In China communist party politicians are indeed being singled-out for a surprising, but understandable, reason: smoking looks bad and reflects poorly on the party.

Party officials that don't smoke or are already trying to quit have been encouraged to get their peers to follow suit. This will be a decidedly impossible task as China is the largest consumer of tobacco products in the world. Smoking, like here in America, is viewed by Chinese men as a social act and is used to bond with others. Über wealthy Chinese also frequently give and receive premium cigarettes as gifts. One particular brand, Good Cat, sells for nearly 900 USD and still sell like hotcakes.

The State Council, China's cabinet, has been passing out circulars warning Communist Party members that smoking is a public menace.

"The phenomenon of smoking in public places remains prevalent, especially for a small number of leading cadres, who not only endanger the public health and environment, but also harm the image of the Communist Party and the government," says the circular issued by the State Council, China's cabinet.

It goes on to say that "smoking remains a relatively universal phenomenon in public venues. Some officials smoke in public places, which has not only jeopardized the environment and public health, but tarnished the image of party and government offices and leaders and has a negative influence."

Any party member who uses taxpayer monies to buy cigarettes will be "criticized and educated about their evil influence," according to the circular. The exact type of punishment that will be doled out wasn't stated, but "severe" ramifications will take place.

Per the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention Chinese government officials and policymakers will talk about pursuing a nationwide smoking ban. Current bans in select major Chinese cities do exist though not strictly enforced. Whatever the outcome of a possible nationwide ban, it's odd that anyone would bother paying for cigarettes in a country already plagued by smog issues.

What do you think of China's smoking ban? Let us know in the comments below.