In a historic move, the Maldives has become the first country in the world to introduce a 'generational smoking ban', completely prohibiting the sale and use of tobacco for anyone born on or after January 1, 2007. The landmark decision aims to create a tobacco-free generation and drastically reduce smoking-related diseases in the island nation.

What the new law means

Under the new amendment to the country’s tobacco control law, no one born in 2007 or later will ever be allowed to buy or use tobacco products in the Maldives. The ban covers all forms of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars and related products.

Retailers will be required to verify the birth year of anyone purchasing tobacco to ensure compliance. The Maldives had already banned e-cigarettes and vaping devices last year, a

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