Under the new regulations, which came into effect yesterday, tourists may now bring in up to 200 cigarettes (one carton) or 250 grams of tobacco for personal use without paying duty.
The government has reinstated duty free allowances for tourists bringing in limited amounts of tobacco for personal use.
Previously, both locals and tourists were permitted to import tobacco products duty free for personal use. However, this was halted at the beginning of the month.
Under the new regulations, which came into effect yesterday, tourists may now bring in up to 200 cigarettes (one carton) or 250 grams of tobacco for personal use without paying duty.
Additionally, the government has announced a ban on vape imports starting from November 15, with a ban on vape use from December 15. Amendments to the Tobacco Control Act are also planned to strengthen regulations. From the start of this month, duty on tobacco products, including cigarettes, has been increased.
The amendment to the Import Export Act imposes a 50 percent duty on flame free tobacco products and MVR 8 per vape stick. Flavors and chemicals used in smoking devices will also incur a duty of MVR 8.
In addition, the duty on electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and tobacco-heating products has been raised to 200 percent.
Currently, a pack of cigarettes costs around MVR 100, but this price is expected to double following the new duty rates.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has also announced that the sale and use of vapes will be banned starting December 15.
As part of broader efforts to discourage tobacco use among young people, the Tobacco Control Act, in effect for 14 years, has been amended to raise the legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21.
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