In a sweeping show of support for President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s bold health agenda, the Maldives Parliament has passed a landmark generational tobacco ban—ushering in a future where smoking could become a relic of the past.
The amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, moved by PPM-PNC coalition MP Ali Ashrag, received overwhelming parliamentary approval on Tuesday, with 63 out of 65 lawmakers voting in favour. The legislation, if ratified by President Muizzu, will take effect on November 1, targeting individuals born on or after January 1, 2007—effectively banning the sale, purchase, and use of tobacco products for an entire generation and all future ones.
Framed as a decisive move to protect national health and safeguard youth from the harms of tobacco addiction, the amendment represents one of the most aggressive anti-smoking policies in the region. The law was reviewed by a seven-member temporary committee, which recommended only minor revisions before sending it to the floor for vote.
President Muizzu had earlier signalled his support for the generational ban, describing it as a visionary initiative that will benefit over 30 percent of the current population. He emphasised that the long-term impact of the ban would significantly improve national well-being, reduce healthcare costs, and protect families from tobacco-related illnesses.
Under the new provisions, all retailers will be legally required to verify the age of buyers using government-issued identification, with strict penalties for those who fail to comply. The amendment also prohibits the import and use of rolling tobacco machines and related equipment, while empowering law enforcement to seize vape devices and electronic cigarettes.
This legislation follows a string of bold measures under the Muizzu administration, including a nationwide ban on the sale and use of vape products and a sharp increase in import duties on cigarettes—moves that have been widely praised by health experts and civic leaders alike.
If ratified, the Maldives will become one of the first nations globally to successfully pass and implement a generational tobacco ban—a move that reinforces President Muizzu’s growing reputation as a leader willing to make hard, future-focused decisions in the interest of public welfare.
With this legislation, the Maldives takes a historic step towards a smoke-free future—one generation at a time.
