Broadcasting authorities in Hong Kong were preparing Friday to lift a ban on the advertising of anti-smoking nicotine patches and gum.
The proposed lifting of the prohibition, which must be approved by the government, would end a 30-year ban on adverts for "smoking cures," which was introduced to avoid misleading commercials.
In a consultation paper distributed Friday, the territory's Broadcasting Authority said lifting the ban would acknowledge the "right of smokers to know about smoking cessation products."
About 30 different types of nicotine chewing gum, patches and inhalers are on sale without a prescription in pharmacies across the city of 6.9 million.
Around one in five Hong Kong men smoke, compared with more than 60 per cent in mainland China. A law banning smoking in restaurants, bars and public areas was introduced at the beginning of 2007.
Shares fell 2.1 per cent Friday on the Seoul stock exchange on general recession fears. South Korea's won dropped against the dollar.
When the Spirit rover landed on Mars five years ago, no one expected it or its sister rover Opportunity to make it to their first birthdays, let alone their fifth.
Amelie Mauresmo fell victim to a leg injury after less than half an hour on court Friday to hand over a 4-0 victory which put French compatriot Marion Bartoli into the final of the Brisbane International.
Mumbai-based movie Slumdog Millionaire won five prizes Thursday night at the Critics Choice Awards, cementing its position as a surprise favourite just as the Oscar season moves into high gear.
After the Taipei Zoo received two giant pandas from China, another Taiwan zoo said Friday it is seeking to receive a pair of pandas from China.