President Dr Mohamed Muizzu ratified the second amendment to the Tobacco Act today during a special ceremony held at the President’s Office, marking a historic step in the country’s tobacco control efforts. The amendment introduces a first-of-its-kind generational ban on tobacco use, along with a prohibition on importing equipment used in the production of tobacco products.
This marks the second time President Muizzu has held a formal ceremony to ratify legislation, following a similar event on Monday to approve amendments to the Maldives Sports Act. Students from various schools, those directly impacted by the new generational ban, attended today’s event, alongside representatives from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations.
Key Provisions of the Amendment:
Generational Ban and Youth Restrictions:
The law prohibits the sale, purchase, and use of tobacco products for anyone born on or after 1 January 2007. It also bars individuals under the age of 21 from participating in tobacco-related sales or commercial activities, thereby shielding young people from early exposure.
Ban on Tobacco Equipment and e-Cigarettes:
The amendment bans the import, possession, and use of equipment used to manufacture tobacco products. It also strictly prohibits electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and related accessories.
Advertising and Sponsorship Ban:
All forms of tobacco advertising, promotional activity, and sponsorship are now outlawed.
The government has set up a system to ensure the transparent and accountable disposal of confiscated tobacco products, e-cigarettes, vapes, and related equipment, offering public reassurance on enforcement measures.
In his address, President Muizzu acknowledged the deeply rooted unhealthy habits within Maldivian society and described the amendment as a bold move towards national well-being. He said the country must distance itself from these harmful behaviours and that this legislation represents a decisive step in that direction.
The amendment also clarifies and strengthens the vape ban introduced on 15 December 2024. President Muizzu noted that the earlier law did not explicitly outlaw the possession of vapes. With today’s ratification, mere possession of such devices is now illegal.
However, the restrictions will not apply to tourists entering the Maldives. While visitors may bring vapes and related products for personal use, they are prohibited from importing any equipment used to manufacture tobacco products.
The amended Tobacco Act will take effect on 1 November 2025.
President Muizzu thanked international partners, particularly the WHO and the UN, for their support. WHO, in recognition of his leadership in tobacco control, awarded him the WHO Director-General’s Special Award yesterday.
Positive Impact of the Vape Ban
Responding to questions from the media, the President reported early signs of success following the vape ban introduced last December. He noted a noticeable drop in the number of people seeking medical treatment for vape-related respiratory conditions.
“People seeking [medical] care for respiratory diseases related to this [tobacco] have definitely been affected. A positive effect,” he said.
He said they will continue to strengthen the data collection to track this progress.
President Unfazed by Tobacco-Business Owner’s Dissent
Addressing the commercial implications of the new law, President Muizzu said he understood that some business groups may feel aggrieved but made it clear he remained unfazed by criticism. He urged tobacco-related businesses to explore alternative ventures, reiterating his firm stance on prioritising public health over profits.
“I would prefer if there were no importation of tobacco products at all. I do not wish to profit from this industry. Any revenue generated will be directed towards improving our healthcare system,” he stated.
By ratifying this amendment, the Maldives reinforces its commitment to reducing tobacco-related illnesses and building a healthier, more resilient society.
