Customs has seized 800 vape cartridges that were being attempted to be imported into the Maldives by air.

According to a post made by Customs on social media today, the cartridges were seized last Wednesday.

Under the amendment brought to the Tobacco Control Act, importing vapes and related devices into the Maldives has been prohibited starting November 15, 2024.

According to the law, possessing a vape device unlawfully will incur a fine of MVR 2,000. Authorities have also been given to impose a fine of MVR 50,000 if a person refuses to surrender the items to the police.

Using vapes will result in a fine of MVR 5,000. Giving a vape for free will be fined MVR 10,000, while selling vapes will incur a fine of MVR 20,000. Selling a vape to a person under the age of 21 carries a fine of MVR 50,000.