Maldives has banned the purchase of tobacco for people born in 2007 and younger

Maldives has introduced a ban on the use and purchase of tobacco for anyone born after January 2007. The Guardian newspaper writes about this on November 1.

"According to the new regulation, persons born on or after January 1, 2007 are prohibited from buying, using or selling tobacco products in the Maldives. The ban applies to all forms of tobacco. Merchants are required to check their age before selling," the publication reports the text of the document.

It is specified that the measure applies not only to citizens, but also to visitors to the island state.

According to the document, a comprehensive ban remains in place on the import, sale, distribution, possession and use of electronic cigarettes and everything necessary for their use.

The article says that the sale of tobacco products to minors in the Maldives is punishable by a fine of $ 3.2 thousand, and the use of vapes is $ 320.

The law was initiated in May 2025 by President Mohammed Muizzou. It aims to "protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation."

It is noted that the Maldives became the first country to introduce a nationwide smoking ban for an entire generation.

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The Bild newspaper reported on October 16 that the European Union plans to ban filtered cigarettes and electronic tobacco products. The main objectives of the initiative are to prevent addiction, reduce the effects of tobacco smoke on other people, protect the environment and protect these measures from the influence of the tobacco industry.

Earlier, on August 28, it was reported that the Singapore authorities had increased penalties for vaping users and importers of these products. Sellers face up to 10 years in prison and up to five lashes, while users face fines and imprisonment for possession of electronic cigarettes. The new measures relate to vapes with the sedative substance etomidate and came into force with increased control in 2025.

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