Starting tomorrow, the Maldives will enforce a ban on the sale, free distribution, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. This decisive action comes after increasing concerns about children being exposed to drugs through vaping. On November 12, the People’s Majlis amended the law to prohibit the importation of vapes, a measure ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on November 14.
The new regulation stipulates that importing electronic cigarettes and vapes has been prohibited since the ratification date. Beginning December 15, their sale, free distribution, and usage will also be outlawed. Violators will face significant fines: importing these devices will incur a penalty of 50,000 rufiyaa, with an additional 10,000 rufiyaa per vape imported. Selling vapes will result in a 20,000 rufiyaa fine plus 10,000 rufiyaa for each unit sold.
Moreover, distributing vapes for free carries a 10,000 rufiyaa fine, and individuals caught using them will be fined 5,000 rufiyaa. These stringent measures aim to curb the growing issue of vaping among youth in the Maldives.
