Final answer:
The ratification of the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Controls by Chinese authorities signified that all forms of tobacco promotion and sponsorships would be phased out by the year 2010, including TV ads and sports event sponsorships. Option C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Chinese authorities ratified the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Controls, it meant that there would be significant restrictions on tobacco promotion. The most accurate answer to the question is that C) all forms of tobacco promotion and sponsorships will be phased out by the year 2010. This includes a ban on traditional tobacco advertisements and sponsorships, such as in TV ads or sports events.
The tobacco industry has faced increasing regulations globally as health concerns related to smoking have become more prominent. For example, health warnings on cigarette packages have been mandated in several countries, and advertising has been restricted in various forms of media. Moreover, there are increasing efforts to tax tobacco products (sin taxes) to reduce consumption, as tobacco is known to be an inelastic product and a cause of significant health issues.