Maldives Customs Seizes Over 73,000 Vape Devices Since Ban Came Into Effect

The Maldives Customs Service has confiscated more than 73,000 vape devices since the government implemented a ban on such products on 15 November 2024.

Officials have processed 185 cases linked to the devices and intercepted over 24 million smuggled cigarettes. The agency has focused on high-risk consignments arriving by air, establishing a specialised unit at Velana International Airport in August 2024 to strengthen inspections and prevent the entry of prohibited goods. 

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Enforcement activity intensified in December with the largest single seizure to date, when officers confiscated 10,800 vape cartridges during a targeted operation at the Malé Commercial Harbour on 4 December. The interception is part of a broader strategy that has involved more than 40,000 inspections of air and sea freight consignments over the past two years.

The amended Tobacco Control Act, which came into force on 15 December 2024, imposes substantial financial penalties for unauthorised importation. Offenders face a fine of MVR 50،000, in addition to MVR 10،000 for each device. The law also specifies that selling or providing these products to minors incurs an extra MVR 50،000 penalty, applied on top of standard fines for distribution.