Maldives Enforces World’s First Generational Tobacco Ban
Why in the news
The Maldives began enforcing a generational tobacco ban on 1 November 2025, making it the first nation to put such a rule into practice. A national torch relay marked the start of enforcement.
Key facts
- Generational ban: people born after the 1 January 2007 cut-off cannot buy or use tobacco products, and the rule applies to tourists too.
- Vaping: import, sale, possession and use of electronic smoking devices are prohibited for everyone, whatever their age.
- Legal basis: the Second Amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, ratified by President Mohamed Muizzu.
- The measure aligns with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Penalties
| Violation | Fine (Maldivian rufiyaa) |
|---|---|
| Retailer selling tobacco to underage buyers | 50,000 |
| Individual e-cigarette violation | 5,000 |
About the generational approach
Instead of raising a single age limit, a generational ban permanently blocks sales to everyone born after a fixed year, so the restricted group grows over time. New Zealand passed a similar law, but it was repealed in 2024 before it could be implemented, leaving the Maldives as the first country to enforce one.
Exam angle
- Note the leader: President Mohamed Muizzu; the law is an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act.
- The currency of the Maldives is the rufiyaa.
- Link with WHO FCTC for health and international organisation questions.