Maldives Bans Tobacco for Those Born After January 2007!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
The Maldives has officially enacted a generational smoking ban, making it illegal for anyone born after January 1, 2007, to purchase or consume tobacco products, according to the country’s Health Ministry.
What We Know:
- The ban took effect on Saturday, marking the Maldives as the first nation to implement a generational tobacco law.
- It aligns with broader public health reforms aimed at reducing non-communicable diseases.
- Retailers caught selling tobacco to the restricted age group will face fines or license suspensions.
Quote:
“This is a decisive step toward protecting future generations from the harms of tobacco.”
— Maldives Health Minister
Why It Matters:
- Sets a global precedent for tobacco control and youth health protection.
- Could drastically reduce smoking-related illnesses in the long term.
- May influence similar legislative efforts in other countries.
What to Watch:
- Enforcement challenges and retailer compliance.
- Public reaction, especially from youth and advocacy groups.
- International attention and replication of the policy elsewhere.
Sources:
- Maldives Health Ministry – Public Notice, Nov. 1, 2025
- World Health Organization – Tobacco-Free Generations Brief
- Sele Media Global Health Desk
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