Gov’t Proposes Fines for Vaping Device Trade

The government has drafted a bill aimed at amending existing laws to impose fines on individuals involved in the importation, sale, or distribution of vaping devices. 

This development follows President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s announcement on Monday that a ban on the import of vaping equipment and its components will come into effect on November 15.

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Attorney General Ahmed Usham confirmed that he plans to propose this amendment to the law within the week. The draft bill, prepared by the Attorney General’s Office, seeks to amend the Tobacco Control Act and outlines penalties for various offences related to vaping products. These penalties will target users, distributors, and those who provide such items to minors.

The proposed fines are as follows:

• Users of vaping devices could face a fine of MVR 5,000.
• Individuals who sell or distribute vaping products, including those given away for free, may incur a fine of MVR 20,000 for each item.
• Those who sell or provide vaping devices or their components to minors may be fined MVR 50,000.

It is understood that discussions regarding the draft bill took place last week between the Attorney General’s Office and other ministries. The proposed fines and other provisions may undergo changes when the bill is formally submitted to Parliament.

In addition, Usham indicated that amendments to the Export-Import Act are also being considered in conjunction with the changes to the Tobacco Control Act. These legislative proposals are anticipated to be presented to Parliament this week.