Maldives Enforces Generational Tobacco Ban, Expands Crackdown on Vaping and Illegal Cigarettes

Nov 2025 : The Maldivian government has begun enforcing sweeping amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, introducing a historic generational tobacco ban and expanding nationwide restrictions on electronic cigarettes and vaping products. The new rules, effective from Saturday, mark one of the most comprehensive anti-tobacco measures implemented in the region.

According to state-run PSM News, the reforms align with President Mohamed Muizzu’s broader vision of shaping a “competent, morally upright, and diligent citizenry.” The legislation, first proposed on April 29, prohibits the use of tobacco by individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, effectively creating a generation legally barred from ever consuming tobacco products.

Beyond usage restrictions, the amended law imposes strict limitations on sales. Vendors are now prohibited from selling tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21 or to individuals belonging to the newly restricted generation. This dual approach aims to significantly curb youth access to cigarettes and related products.

The amendments also introduce a complete ban on the use, possession, import, manufacture, and distribution of electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and accessories. This follows an earlier nationwide ban enacted in December 2024, when the Maldives outlawed the sale and use of vaping devices after President Muizzu signed the previous amendment to the Tobacco Control Act.

Under the existing regulations, importing vaping devices into the country carries a heavy penalty—an MVR 50,000 fine (approximately 3,250 US dollars)—as part of the government’s effort to curb the rising popularity of vaping among young people. Similar steps have been taken in several other countries, which have begun banning the manufacture and sale of disposable vapes to counter youth addiction trends.

Parallel to its anti-tobacco measures, the Maldivian government has strengthened its campaign against illegal drug and cigarette trafficking. In neighbouring Sri Lanka, authorities have also scaled up efforts to tackle contraband within the region.

Earlier this year, Sri Lankan Customs destroyed foreign cigarette consignments worth 1.2 billion rupees (around 4 million US dollars). These cigarettes, seized in raids conducted in 2018, 2022, and 2024, were destroyed in Colombo. Customs spokesperson Seevali Arukgoda said the three-year total amounted to 8.7 million confiscated cigarettes.

To enhance its detection capabilities, the Sri Lankan Customs Department plans to invest in advanced container-scanning technology powered by artificial intelligence. Officials say these upgrades will significantly improve their ability to intercept illegal imports and strengthen border security.

With the generational tobacco ban now in force and regional authorities intensifying their crackdown on illicit products, the Maldives appears poised to lead a new wave of public health and anti-contraband reforms across South Asia.