The Maldivian Parliament has approved a new amendment prohibiting the import, sale, and use of vaping devices and electronic cigarettes across the country.

The bill, introduced by Henveyru North MP Ahmed Aifan on behalf of the government, passed with 54 votes in favor, while 8 members abstained and none opposed.

The amendment aims to curb the presence of electronic cigarettes by enforcing a total ban on their import, trade, and usage.

It also raises the legal age for tobacco purchases, prohibiting sales of all tobacco products to individuals under 21.

The bill was passed following Social Committee discussions earlier this month, where several significant measures were introduced to bolster its effectiveness:

• Public display of any tobacco products will be regarded as advertising and thus restricted.

• Importers of vaping devices will face a fine of MVR 50,000, with an additional MVR 10,000 fine per device.

• A MVR 10,000 fine will apply to each electronic cigarette or vaping device imported.

• Selling such devices will incur a MVR 20,000 fine, with an additional MVR 10,000 penalty for each item sold.

• Individuals caught using these devices will face a MVR 5,000 fine.

The amendment also clarifies the definition of tobacco products, including items that contain nicotine and can be ingested by chewing, drinking, inhaling, or applying on the skin—excluding therapeutic nicotine products.

The government will begin enforcing the ban on vape imports and components starting this Friday, with the use, production, advertising, and distribution of these items officially prohibited from December 15.

This legislative action underscores the government’s commitment to reducing tobacco use and its associated health risks among Maldivians.