The Maldives has become the first Muslim nation and the only country in the world to enforce a nationwide generational tobacco prohibition.
Young people born on or after 1 January 2007 are banned from smoking tobacco.
The move was initiated by the president, Mohamed Muizzu, earlier this year and came into effect on November 1.
The country’s health ministry says the ban will ‘protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation’.
“Under the new provision, individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 are prohibited from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products within the Maldives,” it added.
“The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify age prior to sale.”
Tourists who are visiting the South Asian archipelago, which is famous for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and luxurious hotels will also be penalized under the new law.
Authorities remain upbeat the ban will not affect tourism.
“People don’t come to the Maldives because they’re able to smoke,” said Ahmed Afaal, vice chair of the archipelago’s tobacco control board.
“They come for the beaches, they come for the sea, they come for the sun, and they come for the fresh air.”
The prohibition on tobacco builds on the success of a ban imposed on the selling and distributing of electric cigarettes last year.
Officials say the measure pushes the Maldives towards a ‘generation of tobacco-free citizens.’
The World Health Organization says the new ruling “provides a global response to a global problem – namely, the tobacco epidemic.”
A hefty penalty of 50,000 rufiyaa ($3,200) will be imposed for selling tobacco to an underage person, while using vaping devices attracts a fine of 5,000 ($320).
The UK has proposed a similar generation ban on smoking, and it is currently under a legislative process.
