The Maldives has officially begun the countdown to one of the nation’s most ambitious public health measures — the generational smoking ban, which will take effect on November 1, 2025.
A special countdown event marking 10 days until the ban’s enforcement was launched on Sunday night during a program aired by Public Service Media (PSM), with participation from several local media outlets.
The upcoming law will prohibit both the sale and consumption of tobacco products to Maldivian citizens born on or after January 1, 2007, making the Maldives one of the first countries in the region to adopt such a far-reaching anti-smoking policy.
A Landmark Amendment to Tobacco Control
The generational ban stems from amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, which were ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on May 21, 2025, during a special signing ceremony at the President’s Office.
The ceremony was attended by cabinet ministers, health officials, and school students, symbolizing the intergenerational importance of the legislation.
The new amendment also prohibits the sale of tobacco products through any means where the buyer’s age cannot be verified, including vending machines, online platforms, and courier services.
The government’s aim, officials say, is not only to curb tobacco use among youth but also to protect future generations from nicotine addiction and the long-term health impacts of smoking.
Complementary Measures Already in Force
This legislative milestone follows the nationwide ban on vaping and e-cigarettes, which came into effect in December 2024. The law prohibits the import, sale, free distribution, and use of all such devices, further tightening tobacco control efforts across the country.
The amendment also empowers the Maldives Police Service to confiscate e-cigarettes and vaping devices found in anyone’s possession — even if the individual is not caught using them.
President Muizzu: Focus Is on Awareness, Not Punishment
Responding to questions about enforcement challenges, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said the government’s primary focus is on education and awareness, rather than punitive action.
“Our biggest focus is awareness,” the President said. “There will always be violations, no matter how strong enforcement becomes. What matters most is changing mindsets and educating the next generation.”
He added that the government is working to strengthen institutions such as the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the police, and Customs to ensure the new law is implemented effectively.
President Muizzu also noted that a significant portion of the 2026 state budget will be allocated to awareness and health promotion programs, reflecting his administration’s emphasis on long-term behavioral change over short-term enforcement.
A Generational Shift in Public Health
The generational smoking ban represents a historic step in national health policy, positioning the Maldives among a growing number of countries pursuing long-term tobacco control strategies.
Public health advocates have hailed the move as a bold and visionary effort that will protect young Maldivians from nicotine dependence while reducing future healthcare burdens related to smoking-related diseases.
With 10 days remaining until the ban takes effect, the countdown symbolizes more than a policy milestone — it marks the beginning of a cultural shift towards a healthier, smoke-free generation in the Maldives.
