President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has proposed raising the minimum age for tobacco sales from 18 to 21 years.
In a social media post, he stated that, alongside a ban on importing and using vaping devices, the Tobacco Control Act should be revised to set the minimum age for tobacco sales at 21. He aims to discourage young people from developing unhealthy habits and plans to present these changes to Parliament.
Last week, the President proposed a comprehensive master plan to reduce tobacco consumption in the Maldives, which includes amendments to the Export-Import Act to increase duties on tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and related flavours and chemicals. He also instructed authorities to take action against those who violate public smoking regulations.
He has directed authorities to prohibit the importation of vaping devices and their components starting November 15. Additionally, from December 15, the use, possession, manufacture, sale, advertising, and free distribution of vaping devices will be banned.