Maldives’ Generational Tobacco Ban Goes Into Effect

[JohnS]

Maldives’ Generational Tobacco Ban Goes Into Effect

November 1, 2025 - Patrick Lagreid

The Maldives has become the first country in the world to implement a generational tobacco ban, meaning that people born after a certain date will no longer be able to purchase, sell, or use tobacco products, including vaping products.

As of today, anyone born after Jan. 1, 2007 will be prohibited from purchasing tobacco products.

“Today we take a historic step towards a tobacco-free Maldives,” wrote First Lady Saajidhaa Mohamed in a post on X. “As a healthcare advocate, I applaud the Government’s leadership in launching the Generational Ban on Tobacco, a powerful investment in the well-being of generations to come. This is a bold, evidence-based step to break the cycle of addiction and prevent diseases. We are securing a healthier, stronger future for our youth. A proud moment for the Maldives!”

The prohibition also applies to visitors to the island, which is located southwest of the southern tip of India in the eastern Arabian Sea, and which is home to approximately 528,000 people.

A retailer found to be selling tobacco to a person born after Jan. 1, 2007 faces a fine of approximately $3,200.

Source: https://halfwheel.com/maldives-generational-tobacco-ban-goes-into-effect/455999/

[smashed]

I mean this isn't too farfetched for the Maldives considering alcohol is illegal there as well for locals. However it's interesting that they extended this tobacco ban to tourists as well.

[SignalJoe]

I for one am genuinely thankful that governent always knows what is best for me and is willing to use the force of law to help me realize it. 

[Odessa]

"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe." The quote is commonly attributed to Albert Einstein.

[LaoFan]

Having just been there last year, I have to assume this will only 'apply' to Malé. We made the decision to stay in the capital for a night after our trip... I'd recommend a pass there.

The rest of the country... none of those laws exist.

[MrBirdman]

16 hours ago, SignalJoe said:

I for one am genuinely thankful that governent always knows what is best for me and is willing to use the force of law to help me realize it. 

Reminds me of the King of the Hill where Arlen bans trans fat and Bill consequently believes he can now eat whatever he wants.

[Arabian]

2 hours ago, LaoFan said:

Having just been there last year, I have to assume this will only 'apply' to Malé. We made the decision to stay in the capital for a night after our trip... I'd recommend a pass there.

The rest of the country... none of those laws exist.

A law on paper. I picked up a box of cigar in Dubai Duty free airport, smoked 'em at the resort/ hotel. No staff will stop you. They even sell cigars, although the resort I stayed at sold Fake Cubans.

 

[smashed]

5 hours ago, Arabian said:

A law on paper. I picked up a box of cigar in Dubai Duty free airport, smoked 'em at the resort/ hotel. No staff will stop you. They even sell cigars, although the resort I stayed at sold Fake Cubans.

 

are you born after Jan 1, 2007? im assuming not. this law doesn't apply to you.