Maldives Smoking & Vape Ban: What It Means for Travelers and Vapers

The Maldives has officially launched one of the world's most stringent anti-tobacco laws, creating a "smoke-free generation" by banning tobacco for anyone born after January 1, 2007. This landmark legislation applies to both residents and international visitors, creating significant implications for travelers. Critically for the vaping community, this new rule complements the nation's existing and absolute ban on all e-cigarettes and vaping products, making the Maldives a zero-tolerance zone for both smoking and vaping for a growing portion of the population.

Understanding the Generational Tobacco Ban

The new law, which came into effect on November 8, establishes a permanent, lifelong prohibition on the sale and use of cigarettes and all other tobacco products for individuals born on or after January 1, 2007. This means that anyone who is 18 or younger today will never be legally permitted to smoke in the Maldives, even after they reach adulthood. The Ministry of Health has emphasized that this policy is a cornerstone of its public health agenda, positioning the Maldives as a global leader in tobacco control.

The ban is comprehensive, covering the nearly 1,200 islands that form the archipelago. Enforcement is strict, requiring all retailers—from local shops to luxury resorts and airport duty-free stores—to verify a customer's age before selling tobacco. Businesses caught supplying tobacco to the prohibited generation face severe penalties, including fines of up to 50,000 rufiyaa (approximately £2,000 or $2,500 USD).

Crucial Information for Travelers

If you are planning a trip to the Maldives, understanding these regulations is essential to ensure a smooth and compliant visit.

1For Smokers

Adults born before the 2007 cut-off date are still legally allowed to purchase and use tobacco products. However, the act of smoking is heavily restricted. Smoking is forbidden in the vast majority of public spaces, including offices, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, and on public transport. Travelers who are permitted to smoke will need to do so only in designated smoking zones, which some resorts provide, or in private settings.

2For Vapers: A Complete Prohibition

It is crucial to understand that the Maldives maintains a separate and complete ban on all e-cigarettes and vaping devices. This prohibition is not new and applies to everyone, regardless of age. The import, sale, and use of any vape product—including disposable vapes, pod systems, e-liquids, and heat-not-burn devices—are illegal throughout the country. Travelers should not bring any vaping equipment with them, as it is subject to confiscation by customs officials upon arrival.

Global Context and Environmental Concerns

The Maldives' generational ban is part of a growing global movement, although its implementation is among the most decisive. The UK is currently advancing a similar bill to ban tobacco sales to those born after January 1, 2009. New Zealand passed a comparable law in 2022, but it was repealed by a new government in 2023 before it took full effect.

The push for such laws is often supported by environmental arguments. Tobacco production contributes to deforestation, soil degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, discarded cigarette butts are the world's most common form of litter, leaching nicotine and heavy metals into ecosystems. While vapes are often discussed as an alternative, the rise of disposable e-cigarettes has created a new wave of plastic and electronic waste, a problem the Maldives has preemptively addressed with its total ban.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Who does the new smoking ban affect?

It applies to everyone (residents and tourists) born on or after January 1, 2007.

• Can I bring my vape or e-cigarette to the Maldives?

No. The import, sale, and use of all vaping products are completely banned for all ages throughout the Maldives.

• I was born before 2007. Can I smoke in the Maldives?

Yes, but only in private areas or clearly marked designated smoking zones. Smoking in most public places is illegal.

• What are the penalties for breaking the rules?

Retailers selling tobacco to the banned generation face heavy fines. For travelers, prohibited items like vapes may be confiscated.