Maldives begins ‘generational ban’ on smoking

The Maldives began implementing a smoking ban on Saturday for individuals born after January 2007, making it the only nation with a generational prohibition on tobacco, as announced by the Health Ministry.

The initiative, introduced by President Mohamed Muizzu earlier this year and effective since November 1, aims to “safeguard public health and foster a tobacco-free generation,” according to the ministry.

Under the new regulation, individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, are not allowed to purchase, use, or be sold tobacco products within the Maldives.

The ban encompasses all forms of tobacco, and retailers must verify the age of customers before selling any tobacco products.

This restriction also extends to visitors to the Maldives, a nation comprising 1,191 small coral islands spread over 800 kilometers across the equator, renowned for its high-end tourism.

The ministry also enforces a comprehensive ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products, applicable to all individuals regardless of age.

Violating the regulation by selling tobacco products to minors incurs a fine of 50,000 rufiyaa ($3,200), while using vape devices carries a penalty of 5,000 rufiyaa ($320).

A similar generational ban proposed in the UK is currently undergoing the legislative process, whereas New Zealand, the first country to introduce such a law against smoking, repealed it in November 2023, less than a year after its implementation.

© 2025 AFP