Maldives Implements Nationwide Tobacco Ban for Youth Born After 2007

The Maldives has taken a historic step by enforcing a nationwide tobacco ban for anyone born in or after 2007, effective from November 1.

The island nation has become the first country in the world to implement such a generational ban aimed at eradicating smoking over time.

"Individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 are banned from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products in the Maldives," the official Health Ministry notification read.

According to the ministry, this move is part of a long-term public health strategy designed to reduce smoking-related diseases and create a healthier generation.

Age Verification and Retail Restrictions

The Health Ministry emphasized that the law covers all forms of tobacco and requires sellers to conduct strict age verification before any sale. "The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify age prior to sale," the order stated.

If there is uncertainty about a customer's age, tobacco products can only be sold after proper verification. The new rule applies not only to residents but also to visitors across the Maldives, a nation of over 1,000 coral islands famous for its luxury resorts.

Government Push for a Healthier Future

President Mohamed Muizzu's administration introduced the legislation in April during a Cabinet meeting, highlighting the country's commitment to tackling unhealthy habits. The Health Ministry reiterated that "unhealthy lifestyle habits are driving serious health problems in the Maldives," underscoring the need for preventive measures, education, and community effort.

This initiative follows earlier steps by the government to strengthen tobacco control, including raising the legal smoking age from 18 to 21 and banning the import of e-cigarettes and vaping devices.

Penalties and Global Comparisons

The law imposes hefty fines to ensure compliance. Selling tobacco products to underage individuals can result in a penalty of 50,000 rufiyaa ($3,200), while using vape devices carries a 5,000 rufiyaa ($320) fine.

The Maldives continues to uphold a complete ban on the import, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes, regardless of age.

Globally, few nations have attempted similar generational bans. A comparable law proposed in Britain remains under discussion, while New Zealand, the first country to introduce such a law, repealed it in late 2023.