finally managed to push through some reform doesn’t change the fact he was not able to for years, despite a concerted effort

The reforms were instituted in 2015? In 2015, China amended the Advertising Law to prohibit the distribution of tobacco advertising, while also initiating waves of tobacco control media campaigns. President Xi became president in 2013. 2 years. It took 2 years from him becoming president to this reform becoming law. Why are you doubling down so hard when you clearly are wrong? Did you not bother to read the link?

Also not to mind in 2013 there were already crackdowns on the tobacco industry. 评领导干部公共场所带头禁烟：为中国控烟行动破冰