The Maldives Has Become The First Country To Ban Smoking For Future Generations

The Maldives has become the first country in the world to ban smoking for future generations.

The ban, which came into effect on Nov. 1, bans anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 2007 from using, buying or selling tobacco in the country.

The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify age prior to sale, with penalties up to US$3,200 for selling tobacco to those under the age limit.

Authorities said the ban will also apply to tourists born after 2006.

The Maldives already banned vaping in 2024, making it illegal for anyone to import, sell, possess, use or distribute electronic cigarettes and vaping products, regardless of their age.

Health advocates said the policy could reduce long-term tobacco-related diseases, which kills 150 people annually in the Maldives, according to the World Health Organization.

The government said the ban is a “historic milestone in the nation's efforts to protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation.”

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