With vape ban, Maldives to hike taxes on cigarettes
As a result, the price of a pack of cigarettes is expected to exceed MVR 200, compared to the current price of approximately MVR 100.
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President Mohamed Muizzu announced plans on Tuesday to increase taxes and import duties on cigarettes and bidi, as part of measures aimed at reducing smoking in the Maldives.
The announcement was made via a post on X (formerly Twitter), where the president outlined steps to discourage tobacco use, including a new anti-smoking campaign.
The measures include changes to the tax structure on cigarettes and bidi:
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The specific rate and ad valorem rate of import duty on cigarettes and bidi will be increased starting next month; A legislative amendment will be sent to parliament this week.
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The specific rate of import duty on cigarettes and bidi will rise from MVR 3 to MVR 8, leading to a price increase of MVR 100 per pack.
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As a result, the price of a pack of cigarettes is expected to exceed MVR 200, compared to the current price of approximately MVR 100.
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The ad valorem rate on cigarettes and related products will be doubled, from 50% to 100%.
President Muizzu also announced the launch of a national campaign to support those seeking to quit smoking, emphasising the need for collective efforts to create a tobacco-free society.
"I ask for the cooperation and assistance of all the people to make our country a tobacco-free society," the president said in his post.
In another announcement on Monday, the president stated that taxes and duties on cigarettes and bidi will be increased and that the import of vaping products and their components will be banned starting November 15.
The use, possession, manufacture, sale, advertising, and free distribution of vaping devices will also be prohibited in Maldives starting from December 15.
