Positive results seen from vape ban in Maldives: President Muizzu

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that the Maldives is already seeing positive outcomes from the recent ban on the import and possession of vapes, which came into effect on December 15, 2024.

Speaking after ratifying the second amendment to the Tobacco Control Act which introduces a generational ban on tobacco use, President Muizzu highlighted positive trends in public health and behavior.

He noted that the number of people moving away from vaping has significantly increased since the ban.

“Of course the respiratory diseases in hospitals, cases associated with vaping is certainly [decreasing],” he said.

Under the new law, individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, will be prohibited from purchasing or using tobacco products. This generational ban will come into force on November 1, 2025, following a six-month transition period. The law was also amended last year to raise the legal age for purchasing tobacco from 18 to 21.

President Muizzu said that these measures are not intended to stigmatize individuals, but rather to promote long-term health through awareness and prevention.

“One of the most important objectives of the Generation Ban and vape ban is to get people to give up tobacco by raising awareness,” he said.

To support this effort, the government will expand tobacco cessation services across the country.

President Muizzu said that a dedicated budget has been allocated to the Ministry of Health to establish cessation clinics in more regions.