The Maldives has become the first and only country in the world to enforce a generational ban on tobacco, marking a groundbreaking step toward creating a tobacco-free generation. The historic policy, initiated by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu earlier this year, officially came into effect on November 1, 2025.
Under the new law, anyone born on or after January 1, 2007, is prohibited from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products anywhere in the Maldives. The ban applies to all forms of tobacco and extends to visitors and tourists as well. Retailers are now legally required to verify the age of buyers prior to any sale.
According to the Health Ministry, the initiative aims to protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation across the nation’s 1,191 coral islands, which are renowned for their pristine natural beauty and world-class tourism.
This move follows a series of bold public health decisions made under President Muizzu’s administration — including the nationwide vape ban, support for Palestine, prohibition of Israeli passports, and an unprecedented 15-hour presidential press conference promoting government transparency.
The government has also imposed strict penalties to ensure enforcement:
· MVR 50,000 (USD 3,200) fine for selling tobacco to a person born after 2007.
· MVR 5,000 (USD 320) fine for using vape devices.
The Maldives already maintains a comprehensive ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession, and use of e-cigarettes and vaping products, applicable to all individuals regardless of age.
The generational smoking ban has attracted widespread international attention and praise from global media outlets, including The Guardian, France 24, DW, Times of India, The Straits Times, RTE, and The Brussels Times. Coverage extended from Asia and Europe to Africa and the United States, lauding the Maldives’ leadership and urging other nations to follow suit.
While the United Kingdom continues to debate a similar proposal and New Zealand—the first to pass such a law—repealed it in 2023, the Maldives now stands alone as the world’s sole nation implementing a permanent generational tobacco ban.
As global health experts and media applaud the decision, the Maldives sets a powerful example — proving that even a small island nation can lead the world in progressive, life-saving public health policies.
