The Maldives has implemented a groundbreaking generational smoking ban, prohibiting anyone born after 1 January 2007 from purchasing or using tobacco products. The ban, which came into effect on 1 November, was initiated by President Mohamed Muizzu earlier this year and aims to 'promote a tobacco-free generation', according to the health ministry.
The new law applies to all forms of tobacco, including cigarettes and vaping products, and extends to visitors to the Indian Ocean archipelago. Retailers are required to verify the age of customers before selling tobacco products, with penalties for non-compliance set at 50,000 rufiyaa ($3,200) for selling to underage individuals.
The Maldives also maintains a comprehensive ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products for all individuals, regardless of age. Using vape devices carries a fine of 5,000 rufiyaa ($320).
This move makes the Maldives the only country with a generational smoking ban, as a similar proposal in the UK is still progressing through legislation, and New Zealand repealed its generational ban in November 2023, less than a year after its introduction.
