Maldives Vape Ban Strengthened—Devices to Be Seized and Destroyed

Authorities have intensified enforcement of the vaping ban, effective since December 15, 2024, by granting police the power to confiscate and destroy prohibited devices under the newly published General Regulation on Tobacco Control. This regulation closes a legal gap for devices imported before the ban. Fines for individuals caught with vapes are MVR 2,000, and up to MVR 50,000 for refusing to surrender devices. Police have fined 29 individuals so far. The Tobacco Control Act sets higher fines: MVR 5,000 for using a vape, MVR 10,000 for distributing free, MVR 20,000 for selling, and MVR 50,000 for selling to someone under 21. The World Health Organization commended the Maldives for these measures, which aim to curb adolescent vaping.

Authorities have intensified enforcement of the vaping ban, effective since December 15, 2024, by granting police the power to confiscate and destroy prohibited devices under the newly published General Regulation on Tobacco Control. This regulation closes a legal gap for devices imported before the ban. Fines for individuals caught with vapes are MVR 2,000, and up to MVR 50,000 for refusing to surrender devices. Police have fined 29 individuals so far. The Tobacco Control Act sets higher fines: MVR 5,000 for using a vape, MVR 10,000 for distributing free, MVR 20,000 for selling, and MVR 50,000 for selling to someone under 21. The World Health Organization commended the Maldives for these measures, which aim to curb adolescent vaping.

Authorities have intensified enforcement of the vaping ban, effective since December 15, 2024, by granting police the power to confiscate and destroy prohibited devices under the newly published General Regulation on Tobacco Control. This regulation closes a legal gap for devices imported before the ban. Fines for individuals caught with vapes are MVR 2,000, and up to MVR 50,000 for refusing to surrender devices. Police have fined 29 individuals so far. The Tobacco Control Act sets higher fines: MVR 5,000 for using a vape, MVR 10,000 for distributing free, MVR 20,000 for selling, and MVR 50,000 for selling to someone under 21. The World Health Organization commended the Maldives for these measures, which aim to curb adolescent vaping.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of health / crime.