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Maldives enforces world-first generational tobacco ban
The Maldives has become the first country globally to prohibit tobacco use, purchase, and sale for all citizens born on or after 1 January 2007, the health ministry announced on Saturday. The measure, described as a "strong commitment to protecting young people," extends to all tobacco products, with retailers mandated to verify age before transactions.
Alignment with global health frameworks
The ban aligns with the Maldives' obligations under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which addresses the global tobacco epidemic, according to the UN health body. Ahmed Afaal, vice chair of the nation's tobacco control board, emphasized the policy's role in fostering a "tobacco-free generation," building on last year's nationwide vaping prohibition.
Afaal told the BBC World Service that the vaping ban was a critical precursor, as e-cigarettes often serve as "tactics of the industry to hook younger generations on addictive processes that harm their health." The 2024 vaping law criminalized the import, sale, possession, or use of e-cigarettes for all ages.
Tourism impact and enforcement
While the ban applies to tourists, Afaal dismissed concerns about economic fallout, noting that visitors prioritize the Maldives' beaches, marine attractions, and natural environment. "People don't come to the Maldives because they're able to smoke," he stated, citing tourism data showing no cancellations and a rise in arrivals over the past year. The country anticipates over 2 million tourists in 2026.
Global context: Setbacks and progress
The Maldives' policy contrasts with recent reversals elsewhere. New Zealand scrapped a similar generational smoking ban in 2023 following a government change, disappointing health advocates and Māori communities, who face disproportionately high smoking rates. Meanwhile, the UK's proposed ban-targeting those born after 2009-has advanced through Parliament, currently under review in the House of Lords before potential royal assent.
"The Maldives' crackdown on vaping was a good step towards a generation of tobacco-free citizens. These stylish gadgets are tactics of the industry to approach younger generations."
Ahmed Afaal, Vice Chair, Maldives Tobacco Control Board
