President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that a proposed bill to impose a generational tobacco ban will be submitted to Parliament later this month, with implementation scheduled for November 1, 2025.

The legislation, which received Cabinet approval on April 13, aims to prohibit the sale and use of tobacco products by individuals born on or after January 1, 2007.

The move is part of a broader public health initiative to protect future generations from the harmful effects of smoking.

Speaking during the Rayyithunna Eku (With Citizens) podcast, President emphasized that nearly 30 percent of the Maldivian population has been born since 2007.

calling the bill a significant investment in public health.

adding that keeping children and young people away from tobacco use is critical to developing a strong and healthy generation capable of serving the country.

The President also highlighted concerns over the high number of young adults who begin smoking at the age of 18.

He stressed that preventing tobacco exposure from an early age would contribute greatly to reducing overall societal tobacco use.

President explained that once the bill is passed by Parliament, there will be a six-month window before it comes into effect, allowing current users aged above 18 time to quit the habit.

Prior to reaching this decision, the President conducted a public poll on the matter.

While the majority of respondents favored applying the generational ban to individuals born from the year 2000 onwards, the Cabinet ultimately decided to enforce the ban for those born since 2007.

This policy follows an earlier move on December 15 last year, when the Maldives implemented a nationwide ban on vapes.

The law includes strict penalties for the sale and use of vapes, reinforcing the government’s commitment to curbing nicotine addiction and safeguarding public health.