• The Maldives enforces a smoking ban on people born after January 2007, becoming the only country in the world to implement this measure for the new generation
• The law covers all types of tobacco and applies to both residents and visitors, with fines imposed on violators

The Maldives has begun enforcing a smoking ban on all individuals born after January 2007, making it the only country in the world to prohibit the purchase and use of tobacco for the new generation, according to the Ministry of Health

The ministry explained that this step, initiated earlier this year by President Mohamed Muizzu and implemented starting November 1, aims to protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation

The statement noted that the ban covers all forms of tobacco and requires sellers to verify the age of customers before making a sale

This measure also applies to visitors in the country, which consists of 1,191 small coral islands spread over approximately 800 kilometers across the equator and is known for luxury tourism

The ministry also confirmed that the comprehensive ban on importing, selling, distributing, possessing, and using e-cigarettes and vaping products remains in effect for all individuals, regardless of age

Selling tobacco products to underage individuals carries a penalty of 50,000 rufiyaa (about $3,200), while using e-cigarette devices carries a fine of 5,000 rufiyaa (about $320)

It is worth noting that Britain has proposed a similar generational ban, which is still under legislation, while New Zealand, the first country to introduce such a law, repealed it in 2023 less than a year after implementation