Malé, Maldives — Effective November 15, the Maldives will ban the import of e-cigarettes and related vaping products following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's ratification of a new amendment to the Tobacco Control Act. This is part of a two-phase crackdown, with public use of these products becoming illegal starting December 15.

The penalties are steep: anyone caught importing e-cigarettes faces fines of MVR 50,000, with an additional MVR 10,000 per item. Sales violations will lead to a MVR 20,000 fine plus MVR 10,000 per item sold. Even non-commercial distribution, like giving items away, will incur these fines, and providing to minors will escalate fines to MVR 50,000.

Additionally, the amendment raises the legal age for tobacco purchases to 21, strengthening measures to curb youth access. The government has framed these changes as crucial for protecting public health amid concerns about the rising use of vaping products among young people.

Businesses must now adjust swiftly to avoid violations, while authorities gear up for rigorous enforcement. Though welcomed by health advocates, some business owners worry about economic repercussions. The Maldives joins a list of countries tightening vaping laws, underscoring its commitment to reducing public health risks.