President initiates masterplan to address tobacco consumption
The president has instructed relevant authorities to ensure the availability of free smoking cessation programmes at all health centres.
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President Mohamed Muizzu, following a cabinet recommendation, has decided to develop a comprehensive masterplan aimed at combating tobacco consumption in the Maldives.
This masterplan will include additional measures alongside the enforcement of existing tobacco control laws and regulations, with the goal of achieving a permanent solution to tobacco use over the next four years.
The president has directed that the first draft of the masterplan be presented at the cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
This decision was reached after extensive deliberations during the most recent cabinet meeting.
The cabinet’s recommendation emphasises the masterplan’s focus on promoting a smoke-free society. Key initiatives include empowering social workers, introducing incentives for non-smoking islands, and providing financial support for social activities on these recognised islands.
The president has instructed relevant authorities to ensure the availability of free smoking cessation programmes at all health centres for individuals seeking assistance.
Meanwhile, measures decided by the government this week includes 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%.
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.
