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

Oct.17.2024

WHO praises Maldives for banning e-cigarettes to combat rising trend, citing harmful effects on youth. Global ban count now 37.

According to a report from Edition on October 17th, the World Health Organization (WHO) has praised the decision of the Maldives to ban e-cigarettes and related products.

The World Health Organization's Southeast Asia Regional Office announced on social media platform X that this decision is a significant step in combating the growing trend of e-cigarette use, especially among youth.

According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey data, 23.1% of boys aged 13 to 15 have used e-cigarettes, while 10.7% of girls have used e-cigarettes.

The organization emphasizes that all forms of tobacco consumption are harmful and are a leading risk factor for non-communicable diseases.

On the 15th, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu announced that the import of all e-cigarette products and device components will be illegal starting from November 15th. Additionally, the use, possession, production, sale, advertising, and distribution of all e-cigarette products will be banned starting from December 15th.

According to WHO data, currently 37 countries worldwide have banned e-cigarettes. In the region, countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and East Timor have all implemented e-cigarette bans.

References:

[1] WHO welcomes Maldives' decision to ban vapes

Also Read:

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

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

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

[4] Maldives Health Agency Advocates for Additional Tobacco Taxation

[5] Maldives Customs to Cancel Tax-Free Import of E-Cigarettes and Energy Drinks

#Legislation #E-cigarettes #Asia #Maldives

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