Government Moves to Ban Tobacco Production Machines, Tighten Tobacco Control
Tobacco consumption has reportedly shifted to other means—such as the hand-rolling of tobacco—following recent increases in tobacco taxes.
The government has submitted a proposal to Parliament seeking to amend the Tobacco Control Act to introduce stricter measures against tobacco use and production, including a ban on tobacco production machinery.
The amendment bill, presented by Kinbidhoo MP Ali Ashrag on behalf of the government, proposes to prohibit the importation of “machinery and equipment dedicated to the production of tobacco products” into the Maldives. According to the bill, this term refers to mechanical or automatic machinery and tools specifically designed to process and prepare tobacco products.
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The proposed changes reflect the government’s broader efforts to curb tobacco consumption, following a Cabinet decision to introduce a “generation ban.” Under this policy, Individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 will be prohibited from smoking, gradually phasing out smoking for future generations. The bill also aims to raise the minimum age for tobacco sales to 21 years and strictly prohibit sales and transactions involving those underage.
In addition, the amendments address the challenges that arose after the earlier ban on vape products. Despite the existing ban on the sale, use, and import of vape products, vape sales continue to thrive on online platforms. At the same time, tobacco consumption has reportedly shifted to other means, such as the hand-rolling of tobacco—following recent increases in tobacco taxes. This shift has fueled concerns about the rise of black market activity and unregulated distribution channels, making enforcement more challenging for authorities.
To counter the black market that has developed, the bill proposes a ban on the sale of tobacco products through vending machines, kiosks, or online platforms.
Furthermore, the amendments will grant more authority to police and customs officers to enforce tobacco regulations. Tobacco sales will also be subject to mandatory registration and licensing under the new rules.
The government’s move is part of an aggressive strategy to reduce tobacco use and its associated health risks. If passed, the amendments are expected to significantly tighten control over tobacco production, sales, and consumption across the country.
