Minister says tobacco generational ban showing early impact
The minister said behavioural change takes time, but feedback from the public indicated that changes were starting to emerge.
Health Minister Abdulla Nazim said on Monday that the generational ban on tobacco use and trade for individuals born from 2007 onwards has been in force for two months and that its effects are beginning to be observed.
Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, the minister said behavioural change takes time, but feedback from the public indicated that changes were starting to emerge.
He said that while no formal scientific study has yet been conducted, members of the public had reported a reduction in cigarette smoke in public places, including mosques. He added that the measure was influencing changes in behaviour.
The minister said the government had taken a clear position against tobacco use and had placed the issue on the public agenda. He said the approach had received public support.
Under the law enacted in November, the use, sale, and trade of tobacco products are prohibited for individuals born from 2007 onwards. The law also prohibits selling tobacco to those covered by the ban or engaging in tobacco-related business involving them.
To support the implementation of the generational ban, the government has introduced smoking cessation clinics for individuals seeking to quit tobacco use. The minister said the service would be available at health facilities across all islands and that demand for the service had already been recorded.
