Maldives implements a generational smoking ban

The Maldives has launched a “generational” tobacco ban which prevents anyone born on or after January 1, 2007 from buying and smokingThe measure, in effect since November 1, 2025, makes the archipelago the first country to apply this model in a comprehensive way.

The Ministry of Health, with the support of the president Mohamed MuizzuHe argues that the initiative seeks to protect public health and create a tobacco-free cohortThe Health Protection Authority (HPA) coordinates surveillance and campaigns in businesses and educational centers to reinforce age verification.

What exactly does the new rule prohibit?

The veto reaches all forms of tobaccoNot only is the sale of drugs illegal, but so is their consumption by those born in 2007 or later. Furthermore, sellers are required to verify the buyer's age in every transaction.

Along with the ban based on year of birth, the Government has raised the minimum purchase age from 18 to 21 yearsThe stated objective is to steadily reduce the initiation of smoking among young people and, with it, the health burden linked to smoking.

The application includes a period of active supervisionthrough inspections and awareness campaigns. Authorities emphasize that compliance also falls on points of sale, which must adapt their control and display systems.

Tourism and trade: how it affects visitors and businesses

La The ban extends to visitors and tourists. Those traveling to the Maldives who were born in 2007 or later will not be allowed to buy or consume tobacco. during their stay, something especially relevant in a destination of resorts and hotels spread over 1.191 islands along some 800 kilometers of the equator.

For the commercial sector, the regulation implies strengthening the age verification and maintain valid licenses. Tour operators, retailers, and establishments must ensure their staff are aware of the requirements to avoid violations.

The role of electronic cigarettes

The country already had additional restrictions: the import, sale, distribution, possession and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices It has been banned since the end of 2024, with specific controls and economic sanctions.

This comprehensive approach—combustible tobacco and electronic devices— It aims to close off avenues for nicotine consumption among minors and young people.aligning regulations and control actions in the territory.

Where does the Maldives stand in the international debate?

The Maldivian approach contrasts with other jurisdictions. United Kingdom In 2024, he presented a project to permanently ban the sale of cigarettes to those born on or after January 1, 2009; it progressed in its processing, although its final fate remained linked to the subsequent legislative agenda.

For its part, New ZealandThe Maldives, which had pioneered a "smoke-free generation" plan approved in 2022, repealed that guideline in November 2023. The Maldives case reopens the debate on equality before the law, proportionality and effectiveness of cohort measures.

Economic and health data that explain the shift

Official figures indicate that the Maldives imports around 500 million cigarettes a year, for a value close to 1.000 billion rupees, about 56 million euros. Reducing this revenue is part of the health and public spending strategy.

The country's total healthcare expenditure is equivalent to 9,7% of GDPThis reinforces the economic argument for tackling smoking. Added to this is the historically high prevalence among men, with a well-known impact on cardiovascular diseases, COPD and cancer.

Coinciding with its entry into force, the Ministry of Health organized a 24-hour relay race to promote healthy habits, emphasizing the need for prevention, support and social awareness.

Implications for Spain and Europe

For Spanish and European travelers, the essential thing to remember is that the The ban also applies to tourists.Those who fall within the affected birth age group will not be able to buy or consume tobacco in the country, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

On the regulatory front, Europe is watching the Maldivian experiment with interest. To date, neither the EU nor Spain has initiated any regulatory action. generational prohibition As such, although the debate has been ongoing in the UK. What happens in the Maldives could influence future discussions about tobacco control in the region.

The Maldives movement combines access restrictions by age and cohortThe plan includes surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and a hard line on electronic smoking products. It's an ambitious undertaking, and if it succeeds in reducing smoking initiation and consumption, it will reshape the international debate on how to curb smoking with effective legal tools.