President ratifies vape ban bill; effective from Friday
Violators will face substantial fines.
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President Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday ratified an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act that will ban vaping in the country effective Friday.
The law, passed by the parliament on Tuesday, will ban the import of vaping products from Friday, with the use, sale, and distribution of vape products banned from December 15. Violators will face substantial fines under the amended Act.
The parliamentary social committee introduced two additional amendments to the bill:
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Regulation on smoking in public buildings and grounds: The amendment allows smoking in public office buildings and grounds only if regulated under an Act-approved policy.
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Exemptions for cessation products: Among banned tobacco imports, products approved for nicotine replacement therapy or used in tobacco cessation treatments will be exempted if approved by professional authorities.
The amendment specifies significant fines for those found in violation of the vape import and usage ban:
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Import violations: A fine of MVR 50,000 will be imposed on anyone found importing vaping devices and products. Each imported device could incur an additional fine of up to MVR 10,000.
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Sale violations: Those selling vape products will face fines of MVR 20,000, with an added fine of up to MVR 10,000 per item sold.
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Distribution violations: Individuals or businesses distributing vape products free of charge will be fined MVR 10,000.
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Sale or distribution to minors: An additional fine of MVR 50,000 will be imposed if vape products are sold or distributed to children.
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Usage violations: Individuals found using vape products after the ban will be subject to a fine of MVR 5,000.
The amendment also raises the legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21 years, effective immediately upon the bill's enactment. Further, the law will impose stringent penalties for smoking in restricted areas.
