President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has affirmed the Government’s commitment to delivering real solutions to the major challenges facing the nation. Speaking at the ratification ceremony for the Second Amendment to the Tobacco Control Act (Act No. 15/2010), he emphasised that his Administration has the political will to address long-neglected issues such as tobacco control; an area he noted previous governments lacked the resolve to pursue.
The Amendment ratified today introduces a generational ban on tobacco in the Maldives. Under the new legislation, the sale, purchase, and use of tobacco products are prohibited for individuals born on or after 1 January 2007. Furthermore, individuals under the age of 21 are barred from participating in any tobacco-related sales or commercial activities, offering additional protection to young people. The amended law also prohibits all forms of tobacco advertising, sponsorship, and promotional activities.
The President underlined that steering the nation away from harmful influences is essential for safeguarding its future. He urged the public to view these reforms as universally beneficial and called for collective participation in their implementation.
He reiterated his Government’s resolve to confront such sensitive issues, stating that the future depends on national unity in enforcing these measures. The Amendment, he noted, is not only a significant step in tobacco control but also a pivotal instrument in achieving the country’s broader developmental goals.
In addition to the generational ban, the President stressed the importance of tobacco prevention initiatives. Tobacco cessation services will be introduced nationwide, alongside public awareness campaigns. He clarified that the objective of law enforcement is not to generate Government revenue through fines, but rather to build a healthy and thriving society by freeing the nation from the dangers of tobacco and discouraging drug use and other harmful behaviours.
The Amendment has been published in the Government Gazette and will come into effect on November 1, 2025.
