Maldives president to introduce new law raising tobacco purchase age to 21

Oct.24.2024

The President of the Maldives has submitted an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act to Parliament, proposing to raise the legal age for the purchase and handling of tobacco products from 18 to 21. The amendment also seeks to increase penalties for violations in order to reduce underage access to tobacco.

President Mohamed Muizzu recently proposed a major amendment to the Tobacco Control Act to Parliament, according to the Maldives Journal. The amendment includes raising the legal age for purchasing and handling tobacco products from 18 to 21.

In addition to raising the legal age, the new legislation also aims to impose stricter penalties for violations of the Tobacco Control Act, targeting illegal sales and distribution networks that allow minors access to tobacco products.

Health experts and public health advocates welcome these new measures, stressing that raising the legal age for tobacco sales will greatly reduce young people's access to tobacco and help reduce the long-term health risks associated with nicotine.

References:

[1] President Muizzu to Propose Raising Legal Age for Tobacco Sales to 21 in New Tobacco Control Legislation

Also Read:

[1] Maldives government proposes tax hike on e-cigarette imports

[2] WHO Commends Maldives' Ban on E-Cigarettes and Related Products

[3] Major Marijuana Smuggling Operation Disguised as E-Cigarette Liquid Busted

[4] Maldives President Announces Nationwide Ban on E-Cigarettes and Products

[5] NCD Alliance Urges President to Ban E-cigarette Imports in Maldives

#Traditional tobacco #Legislation #Asia #Maldives

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