The People’s Majlis has today passed an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, banning the use and trade of vapes in the Maldives and setting the minimum age for tobacco trade at 21 years.
The amendment, proposed by PNC member Ahmed Aifan representing Henveiru North constituency on behalf of the government, was passed with 54 votes.
The bill proposes to ban the import, sale, free distribution, and use of electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and related products in the Maldives.
According to the bill:
– The import of vapes and vaping products will be banned from November 15.
– The sale and use of vapes will be banned from December 15.
The bill also outlines penalties for violations:
1. Importing vapes: 50,000 rufiyaa fine
2. Additional 10,000 rufiyaa fine per imported vape
3. Selling vapes: 20,000 rufiyaa fine, plus plus 10,000 rufiyaa per vape sold
4. Giving away vapes for free: 10,000 rufiyaa fine
5. Using vapes: 5,000 rufiyaa fine
If the bill is enacted, it will also prohibit the sale of cigarettes and similar tobacco products to individuals under 21 years of age.
