Maldives Implements Comprehensive Vaping Ban

Tourists Prohibited from Bringing Vaping Devices as Government Takes Strong Stance Against Smoking

The Maldives has implemented a sweeping ban on vaping, making it illegal to import, use, possess, manufacture, sell, advertise, or distribute e-cigarettes and related products. The import ban took effect on November 15, while the prohibition on all other aspects of vaping came into force on Sunday, December 15. Alongside the vaping ban, the government has also significantly increased tobacco tariffs, resulting in the doubling of cigarette prices.

Harsh Penalties for Violators

The Maldives has introduced severe penalties for those caught violating the vaping ban. Individuals found using vapes could face fines of $325, while those caught importing vaping devices may be fined $3,240. Selling e-cigarettes carries a fine of $1,300, with an additional $650 penalty for each device sold.

Government Cites Public Health Concerns

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu stated that the government implemented the ban in response to public demand, particularly to protect the youth. The decision followed lobbying efforts by health and sports associations, who raised concerns about the growing use of e-cigarettes in schools.

The Maldives NCD Alliance, a group of NGOs including the Cancer Society, highlighted that 84 percent of deaths in the Maldives are attributed to non-communicable diseases, with tobacco being a significant risk factor. The alliance cited multiple studies linking vaping to an increased risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, and type-2 diabetes, and noted that more than 60 percent of young vape users start smoking before the age of 18.

Due to the harms and risks for NCDs, Maldives NCD Alliance calls for a ban on Electronic Cigarettes and Vape products in the Maldives. #NCDprevention pic.twitter.com/oJVaUf9Yo4
— Maldives NCD Alliance (@MaldivesNCDA) September 12, 2024

Divided Public Opinion

Despite the government’s stance, public opinion on the vaping ban remains divided. While some Maldivians have expressed strong support for the measure, others have vehemently opposed it. Vape shop owners protested the ban, calling for regulation instead of criminalization, and argued that the short notice for enforcement would force those who used vaping to quit smoking back to cigarettes.

WHO Supports Maldives’ Decision

The World Health Organization (WHO) commended the Maldives for its new policies, welcoming the vaping ban as an important initiative to curb the increasing trend of vaping, particularly among young adolescents. The WHO noted that in many countries, the rates of e-cigarette use by children and adolescents exceed adult use, and advised strong decisive action to protect children.

Read more: 33 Countries Have Banned E-Cigarettes and Vapes

Tourists Included in Ban

The vaping ban applies to tourists visiting the Maldives as well. Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusan confirmed that from November 15, vape devices would be intercepted at the border if anyone attempted to bring them into the country. The government has no intention of offering tourists special status to use vapes, unlike the exemption for alcohol in resorts.

As the Maldives takes a firm stance against vaping and smoking, the government remains committed to protecting public health, particularly that of the younger generation. The comprehensive ban and increased tobacco tariffs represent the country’s most stringent measures against smoking in recent history.

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.