Maldives Bans Smoking for Under 21s

Summary of the Maldives’ new Tobacco Ban:

Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the article:

* Generational Ban: the Maldives has implemented a law prohibiting anyone born on or after January 1, 2007, from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products. This aims to create a tobacco-free generation and protect public health.
* Extensive Scope: The ban covers all forms of tobacco. Retailers must verify age before selling.
* Applies to Tourists: The ban extends to visitors and also citizens of the Maldives.
* Vaping Ban: The Maldives already has a complete ban on electronic cigarettes and vaping products for all ages.
* Penalties: Selling tobacco to underage individuals carries a fine of 50,000 rufiyaa ($3,200), while using vape devices results in a 5,000 rufiyaa ($320) fine.
* Global Context: This ban is similar to one proposed in Britain, but differs from New zealand’s experience – New Zealand enacted a similar law but repealed it less than a year later.