The Maldives has implemented a unique tobacco prohibition by banning individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, from using tobacco products. This makes it the only country to introduce a nationwide generational ban on tobacco. The health ministry announced that it would be illegal for this younger generation to purchase, sell, or use tobacco products.
According to the ministry, the ban aligns with the government’s commitment to protect young people from the harms associated with tobacco use. Ahmed Afaal, vice chair of the Maldives’ tobacco control board, indicated in an interview that a previous ban on vaping last year was a significant step towards creating a tobacco-free generation.
The newly introduced ban encompasses all tobacco forms, and retailers will be required to verify the ages of customers before selling these products. This initiative is also in accordance with the Maldives’ obligations under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which aims to provide a global strategy to address the tobacco epidemic.
Additionally, last year saw a total ban on the import, sale, possession, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products in the Maldives. Tourists visiting the islands will also be expected to comply with the new regulations. Afaal has suggested that the smoking ban is unlikely to negatively impact tourism, as visitors are primarily drawn to the Maldives for its natural beauty rather than smoking options. He noted no cancellations had been reported, and visitor numbers had increased.
In contrast, New Zealand recently abandoned plans for a similar generational smoking ban due to a change in government, which some health advocates viewed as a setback. Meanwhile, in the UK, proposed legislation to prohibit smoking for individuals born after 2009 is currently progressing through parliamentary stages.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crex3154l8jo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss