A Tobacco-Free Tomorrow: Maldives Bans Tobacco for Those Born After 2007

The Maldives has taken a pioneering step in global tobacco control by implementing a generational ban that forbids any person born on or after January 1, 2007, from buying, using, or being sold tobacco products. Ratified in May 2025 by President Mohamed Muizzu, the law aligns with the Maldives’ commitment under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

The legislation covers all tobacco forms and strictly bans import, sale, possession, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, irrespective of age. Retailers must verify the birth dates of buyers and strictly enforce the new sale restrictions.

Additional provisions include barring individuals under 21 from tobacco-related commercial activity. Enforcement authorities are empowered to confiscate tobacco products and vaping devices, with a transparent system established for the disposal of confiscated items.

This revolutionary policy, part of a public health agenda, aims to reduce tobacco-related illnesses over time by effectively phasing out tobacco use among future generations.

Key Highlights:

Nationwide tobacco ban applies to citizens born on or after January 1, 2007.

Ban includes smoking, purchasing, and sale of all tobacco products.

Complete prohibition on e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and related apparatus.

Retailers must verify buyer age and date of birth before sale.

Individuals under 21 barred from engaging in tobacco-related transactions.

Confiscation and accountable disposal of tobacco products established.

Law ratified by President Mohamed Muizzu; effective November 1, 2025.

Policy aligns with WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control goals.

Sources: ANews, ASH.org, Maldives Presidency Press Release.