Maldives enforces tobacco ban for those born after 2007

The generational ban, which prohibits the use and sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2007, came into effect in the Maldives on Saturday.

The amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, passed earlier this year, officially came into force today. The Ministry of Health said the amendment marks a major step towards creating a tobacco-free generation and strengthening public health protection.

Under the law, it is an offence for anyone born on or after 1 January 2007 to smoke or engage in any tobacco-related transaction. Sellers of tobacco products are required to verify the age of customers before making a sale.

The Maldives is the first country to introduce a nationwide generational ban on tobacco use.

A 24-hour run was organised in Malé City to mark the introduction of the new regulation.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has welcomed the implementation of the generational tobacco ban, describing it as a key measure to prevent future generations from taking up smoking.