The Republic of Maldives has taken a bold and unprecedented step in global tobacco control, becoming the first nation in the world to implement a generational ban on tobacco. Effective from November 1, 2025, this groundbreaking policy ensures that individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, will never be legally permitted to purchase or use tobacco products within the country. The initiative signals a historic shift toward a tobacco-free future and underscores the government’s long-term vision to protect the health and well-being of future generations.
The generational ban was established through the Second Amendment to the Tobacco Control Act (Act No. 15/2010), which was ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on May 21, 2025. The amendment reinforces the Maldives’ commitment to reducing tobacco use and positions the island nation as a leader in global health reform. Retailers across the country are now required to verify the age of customers before making tobacco sales, ensuring that the new restrictions are effectively enforced.
In addition to this landmark measure, the Maldives continues to uphold a nationwide ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products. This prohibition applies to all individuals, regardless of age, and complements the broader strategy to eliminate nicotine addiction from Maldivian society.
The policy is being implemented under the leadership of the Ministry of Health and the Health Protection Agency (HPA), supported by extensive awareness campaigns and tobacco cessation programmes. These initiatives aim to educate the public on the dangers of tobacco use and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.
The generational tobacco ban aligns with the Maldives’ commitments under the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), reflecting the nation’s proactive stance in global health governance. In recognition of these efforts, the World Health Organization awarded President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu the World No-Tobacco Day Special Recognition Award in May 2025, honoring his exceptional leadership and dedication to public health.
With this bold move, the Maldives has not only set a new global precedent but also inspired a renewed international conversation on the future of tobacco regulation and the collective responsibility to protect future generations from preventable harm.
