The Maldives seen from the air, Photo: Neil Emmerson / robertharding / Profimedia Images
The Maldives has implemented a smoking ban for all people born after January 2007, becoming the only nation with a “generational” tobacco ban, the Ministry of Health announced, as quoted by Rai News.
The initiative, launched by President Mohamed Muizzu earlier this year and which took effect on November 1, “will protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation,” the ministry said.
“Under the new provision, people born on or after January 1, 2007 are prohibited from buying, using or selling tobacco products in the Maldives.” “The ban applies to all forms of tobacco and retailers are required to check age before selling.”
The measure also applies to visitors to the nation of 1,191 coral islets spread over about 800 kilometers, known for its luxury tourism.
The ministry said it also maintains a complete ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products, applicable to all people, regardless of age.
Violating the law and selling tobacco products to a minor carries a fine of 50,000 rufiyaa ($3,200), while using vaping devices carries a fine of 5,000 rufiyaa ($320).
A similar generational ban proposed in the UK is still being legislated, while New Zealand, the first country to adopt a smoking ban, repealed it in November 2023, less than a year after its introduction.
Material produced with the support of Rador Radio Romania
