Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has denied allegations that the government’s strengthened tobacco control measures including the new generational ban are contributing to a rise in organised crime linked to tobacco use.

Responding to questions in Parliament from North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim, the minister said there is no basis for suggesting that the government’s policies are driving illicit activity.

He asserted that some offenders may attempt to justify unlawful behaviour by pointing to regulatory restrictions, but insisted such claims hold no merit.

MP Mohamed Ibrahim had highlighted what he described as an uptick in organised criminal behaviour connected to tobacco, asking whether the trend could be tied to the government’s reforms. 

The minister emphasised that the generational tobacco ban was introduced only after comprehensive assessment and deliberation, with enforcement mechanisms already in place.

He said the initiative is grounded in a long-term strategy to safeguard public health and reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases, noting that tobacco-related illnesses remain a major concern for the national health system.

According to Minister Nazim, the government’s approach includes broad public awareness campaigns highlighting the harms of tobacco, education efforts to support cessation, and programmes designed to build motivation among smokers to quit.

These efforts are being carried out across multiple platforms, alongside expanded access to cessation services throughout the country.

He further confirmed that a monitoring and enforcement system has been set up to ensure compliance with the new regulations, stating that the policies are based on scientific evidence, international best practices, and consultations with relevant agencies.

He added that the full public health impact of these measures will become clear only after a prolonged period of implementation.

The generational ban follows amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, under which individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 are prohibited from using tobacco products.

The restriction, which took effect on 1 November, is supported by a legal ban on the sale of tobacco products to anyone within this protected age group.,