The Maldives has taken a historic step in public health by enforcing a generational smoking ban. From now on, anyone born after January 1, 2007, is prohibited from buying or using tobacco products in the island nation. The government says the measure aims to protect public health and encourage a tobacco-free generation.
A Tobacco-Free Generation
The new provision, introduced under amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, came into effect on November 1. The Ministry of Health said the regulation will “protect the nation’s citizens from the harmful effects of tobacco and help build a healthier, smoke-free future.”
Applies to Tourists Too
The law also covers foreign visitors, meaning tourists born in 2007 or later are not allowed to purchase or smoke tobacco in the Maldives. Retailers must verify buyers’ ages before sale. Violations carry steep fines — 50,000 rufiyaa ($3,200) for selling to underage individuals and 5,000 rufiyaa ($320) for using electronic cigarettes.
Full Ban on E-Cigarettes
The legislation also enforces a complete ban on the import, sale, and use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices, regardless of age. Officials say the decision aims to curb the rapid rise in vaping among younger populations.
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Global Context
While the United Kingdom is considering a similar generational ban, its proposal has not yet become law. New Zealand, which introduced the world’s first such measure in 2023, repealed it less than a year later.
With this move, the Maldives becomes the only country in the world to enforce a lifelong generational ban on tobacco use.
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