The Maldives has enacted a nationwide prohibition on tobacco for individuals born on or after January 1, 2007. This policy makes the country the first globally to enforce such a generational tobacco ban. The health ministry announced that this measure makes it illegal for this specific demographic to use, buy, or sell tobacco products within the nation.
New Tobacco Regulations
The ban, announced by the archipelago's health ministry on Saturday, applies to all forms of tobacco. Retailers are now required to verify the age of customers prior to any tobacco sale. The ministry stated that this policy reflects the government's commitment to protecting young people from the harms of tobacco and aligns with the Maldives' obligations under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The UN's health body describes this convention as a global response to the tobacco epidemic.
Ahmed Afaal, vice chair of the Maldives' tobacco control board, commented that the country's general vaping ban implemented last year was viewed as a step towards fostering a generation of tobacco-free citizens.
Previous Vaping Prohibition
Last year, the Maldives made it illegal for any individual to import, sell, possess, use, or distribute electronic cigarettes and vaping products, regardless of age. Mr. Afaal characterized the crackdown on vaping as an initial step. He stated that these devices are perceived as industry tactics designed to encourage younger generations to adopt addictive habits, which he asserted harms their health.