The Ministry of Health in the Maldives has directed the Maldives Customs Service to enforce the ban on the production of any tobacco products, as stipulated under the Tobacco Control Act. The directive includes the seizure of items used for such production, in line with the law.

An amendment to the Tobacco Control Act introduced in November of last year further strengthens these measures. This amendment bans the production of vapes and prohibits the import of items used in manufacturing tobacco products such as cigars and cigarettes. Article 10 of the Act explicitly prohibits the production of tobacco products within the country, defining "production" as drying or otherwise preparing tobacco leaves by air, sunlight, fire, or other means.

A letter from the Health Ministry to Customs Commissioner General Fathimath Dhiyana, dated December 24, has been circulating on social media. The letter outlines the recent changes and requests Customs to enforce the law. According to the Health Protection Agency (HPA), this letter serves as an implementation guide for the law that is already in effect.

Article 42 (f) of the Act defines "tobacco products" as those made using tobacco leaves, stems, or nicotine, including items consumed through smoking, chewing, or other means. However, products used for tobacco cessation or nicotine replacement therapy, as defined by technical authorities, remain permissible.

The government has also taken steps to support tobacco cessation efforts. A separate letter from the Health Ministry highlights plans to provide cessation services nationwide. State Trading Organization (STO) is working to supply Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) products through pharmacies on all islands. The letter also requests Customs to allow the duty-free import of a shipment of nicotine gum by STO.

In addition to these measures, the government has increased duties on cigarettes by 50%, further aligning with its commitment to reducing tobacco use in the Maldives.