Proposal for Generational Tobacco Sales Ban in the Maldives

Key points:

The Maldives is considering the implementation of a ban on intergenerational tobacco sales, with the cabinet currently discussing the ban, aiming to reduce the negative impact of tobacco use on health, especially among young people.

The government has proposed three options aimed at banning the sale of tobacco for those born in 2007, 2004, and after January 1, 2000. A majority of respondents support implementing the ban starting with those born in 2000.

Once the new ban is passed, it will prohibit the sale of tobacco to individuals born on specific years and beyond, regardless of their age.

According to a report by Edition on April 13th, the Maldives cabinet will decide whether to implement an intergenerational ban on the sale of tobacco products.

Before the meeting, the President's office released a video on social media emphasizing the negative impact of tobacco use on health, and pointing out that it is the leading cause of non-communicable diseases and disabilities in the country.

President Mohamed Muizzu pointed out the urgency of curbing tobacco consumption among the youth in the Maldives.

According to a 2021 survey on non-communicable diseases, 21.8% of individuals aged 15 to 29 are smokers. A global youth survey indicates that 45% of participants use some form of tobacco.

Muizzu said, "In countries with smaller populations like ours, we must take this seriously. As of now, 30.1% of the population (411,741 people born since January 1, 2007) may be affected by the ban.

He added that the increasing incidence of diseases such as cancer and heart disease among young people requires stronger measures, "We need to build a healthy next generation.

The government is conducting a public opinion poll through Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to solicit feedback from the public on the proposed intergenerational ban. They have put forward three potential options.

The ban on tobacco sales for those born after January 1, 2007, was supported by a majority of respondents in a vote that ended on Tuesday (15th). The ban on sales for those born after January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2000, respectively, was also discussed.

Once the proposed ban is passed, it will prohibit the sale of tobacco to individuals born in or after the selected year, regardless of their future age. Current laws permit the sale of tobacco to individuals ages 18 and older.

The government of the Maldives has banned the import of e-cigarettes starting from December 15, 2024, with violators facing heavy penalties.