Customs releases seized rolling tobacco shipments
The release of the rolling tobacco shipments has led to increased activity near shops.
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Maldives Customs Service has released previously seized shipments of rolling tobacco and related products following a decision not to impose a ban on these items.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of Health informed Customs that recent amendments to the Tobacco Act prohibited the import of various items used to wrap tobacco. Customs subsequently began seizing shipments, including rolling tobacco, filters, and wrapping paper, starting on January 2.
According to information obtained by Atoll Times, these seized shipments have now been released and are available for sale.
An importer and trader of tobacco products confirmed the release of the shipments.
"Three shipments we brought in after January 2 were released after two weeks. Customs contacted us last night and informed us of the decision to release them," the importer stated.
While rolling tobacco, filters, and wrapping paper have been released, the importer noted that Customs has retained items such as tobacco wrapping machines. Customs has reportedly informed traders that these items cannot be released.
Efforts to obtain comments from Customs and the Ministry of Health regarding the decision were unsuccessful.
The release of the rolling tobacco shipments has led to increased activity near shops, with some customers reportedly queuing in the rain to purchase the products.
