The Maldives has enacted a “historic” generational tobacco ban, making it illegal for anyone born on or after January 1, 2007, to purchase, use, or sell tobacco products within the country. The new law, ratified by President Mohamed Muizzu and effective this Saturday, makes the Maldives the first country in the world to implement such a nationwide generational prohibition on tobacco.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Health, the ban applies to “all forms of tobacco,” and retailers are now required to verify the age of customers before making a sale. Violating the rules for selling tobacco products to the prohibited generation carries a significant fine of $3,200.
The government stated this measure is a “historic milestone” in its efforts to protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation, aligning with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. Furthermore, the Maldives maintains its existing comprehensive ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession, and use of all electronic cigarettes and vaping products for all citizens, regardless of age. Using a vaping device carries a fine of $320.
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