Key Points
- Vape-related fines in Maldives have reached MVR 659,010,000 (about US$42.8 million);
- 169 individuals were fined for vape-related offences up to October 31, 2025;
- The largest seizure involved 10,800 vapes with a fine of MVR 108,000,000;
- Most seized vapes originated from travellers arriving from Malaysia;
- The import and use of vapes were banned on December 15, 2024.
2Firsts, December,23 2025 – According to Mihaaru News, Maldives Customs statistics show that fines related to illegal vapes have reached MVR 659,010,000 (approximately US$42,835,650) since the ban on the import and use of electronic cigarettes came into force.
Information released under the Right to Information Act shows that 169 individuals were fined for vape-related offences up to October 31, 2025, with penalties totalling MVR 551,010,000 (about US$35,815,650). Following the seizure of an additional illegal shipment, fines increased by around MVR 100,000,000 (about US$6,500,000).
Customs said the largest number of seized vapes were brought in by travellers arriving from Malaysia. One shipment imported on December 10 contained 10,800 vapes, valued at MVR 2,700,000 (about US$175,500), and resulted in a fine of MVR 108,000,000 (about US$7,020,000).
The second-largest case involved 7,210 vapes, carrying a fine of MVR 72,100,000 (about US$4,686,500).
Customs data shows that vape-related fines stood at MVR 400,460,000 (about US$26,029,900) up to August, increasing by MVR 258,550,000 (about US$16,805,750) over the following four months.
Image source: Mihaaru News
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