The Health Ministry has announced amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, introducing significant changes to regulate tobacco and related products in the Maldives. These amendments include a ban on the use, sale, and distribution of vaping devices and associated products, effective from 15 December. They also introduce a licensing requirement for businesses involved in the tobacco trade and impose stringent penalties for violations.
Under the new rules, individuals or businesses importing vaping devices will face fines starting at MVR 50,000, with an additional charge of up to MVR 10,000 per item. The sale of these devices will result in fines of MVR 20,000, alongside a similar additional charge per item. Distributing such products free of charge carries a penalty of MVR 10,000, while selling or distributing them to minors will incur an additional fine of MVR 50,000. Users of vaping devices will also face fines of MVR 5,000.
In addition to the ban on vaping products, the amendments raise the minimum legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21 years. Businesses and individuals involved in importing, exporting, or selling tobacco products must now obtain special licences from relevant authorities. The procedures for issuing these licences are expected to be published within 60 days of the Act’s enactment.
The changes also introduce stricter penalties for smoking in prohibited areas, reflecting the government’s broader effort to strengthen public health regulations. This marks the first update to the Tobacco Control Act since it was passed in 2010.
Meanwhile, the government has increased duties on tobacco products, contributing to a significant rise in prices. Cigarettes, previously costing around MVR 100 per pack, are now noticeably more expensive. These measures form part of the government’s strategy to discourage tobacco use and address the growing health concerns associated with smoking and vaping.
The new rules aim to create a healthier environment in the Maldives, although they may present challenges for businesses and individuals adjusting to the stricter regulatory landscape.
