Parliament has passed raising duty on vapes until ban

Parliament has voted today to pass a motion on raising duty on vapes effective tomorrow until the ban on vapes is implemented on November 15.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu earlier announced the import of vapes from November 15, with use, sale and distribution to be banned from December 15. A bill of amendments to place these bans in effect has been submitted to parliament.

The Import Export Act passed by the parliament today details 50 percent duty from flame free tobacco products and MVR 8 from vape sticks. Flavour and chemicals used in smoking accessories will also be taken MVR 8 from.

These amendments will not present any additional costs to the State, but will contribute towards raising next year's revenues from import duty to MVR 1.5 million, the bill said.

The bill also stipulates bringing changes to instances where exemptions can be granted on import duties and royalty revenue.

At present, the price of a cigarette pack is approximately MVR 100. With the major changes to the duty rates, the price is expected to double.