Penalties on vape use comes into effect
The government has also raised the duty on tobacco products, drastically increasing the price of a pack of cigarettes from MVR 100 to MVR 230 and above.
Government has started issuing fines to vape users under the amendment to the Tobacco Control Act to ban the import, use and distribution of vapes in Maldives.
Maldives has made major changes to its Tobacco Control Act, imposing stringent penalties on the use, sale, and distribution of vapes. This amendment, effective from December 15, reflects the government’s intensified efforts to curb smoking and vaping within the country.
Under the revised law, anyone caught using vapes, selling them, or distributing them could face substantial fines.
Key provisions of the amendment include:
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Possession or use of vaping devices and products: A fine of MVR 5,000 will be levied on individuals found using these devices.
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Importation of electronic cigarettes or vaping devices: Each imported item will attract a fine of MVR 10,000.
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Selling vaping devices or products: A fine of MVR 20,000 will be imposed for every sale.
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Distribution or giving away free of vaping devices or products: This could result in a fine of MVR 10,000.
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Selling or distributing vaping products to a child: An additional severe penalty of MVR 50,000 is enforced in such cases.
The police have released a statement on Monday emphasising their commitment to enforcing this amendment strictly. They will continue to monitor and take action against violations, issuing fines via text messages to the offenders. The fines must be paid promptly, or legal proceedings could follow.
The government has also raised the duty on tobacco products, drastically increasing the price of a pack of cigarettes from MVR 100 to MVR 230 and above.
