President urges public to quit smoking on World Cancer Day
The government has taken measures to reduce tobacco use, including increasing the duty on tobacco products.
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President Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday called on the public to quit smoking, highlighting tobacco use as a major cause of cancer.
His message was shared on social media to mark World Cancer Day.
"Since smoking is one of the leading causes of cancer, on World Cancer Day, let us resolve to avoid this habit," the president stated in his post.
The government has taken measures to reduce tobacco use, including increasing the duty on tobacco products. As a result:
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The price of a pack of cigarettes, previously MVR 100, has increased to MVR 230.
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The use, sale, and distribution of vaping products have been banned in the Maldives, with heavy fines imposed.
During a recent visit to R. Ungoofaaru, President Muizzu addressed the rise in tobacco prices, stating that the decision was made before the outbreak of diseases as part of a policy to protect public health.
"The biggest problems are linked to tobacco use. To encourage people to move away from this behaviour, I increased the price of these products. With public cooperation, we can work towards a healthier society," he said.
