Over 370 People Quit Smoking in the Maldives, Says HPA

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has revealed that a total of 375 people quit smoking in the Maldives last year, while 2,003 individuals sought cessation support services.

The data comes amid intensified government efforts to curb tobacco use, including increased duties on cigarettes, a ban on the import and sale of vaping products, and the introduction of a generational ban prohibiting the sale of tobacco to individuals born in or after 2005.

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In addition, Mohamed Muizzu has announced a financial incentive for island residents who successfully quit smoking entirely.

Statistics shared by the HPA during the press conference held at the President’s Office, for 2023 indicate that 2,003 people accessed cessation services, 770 individuals used the National Quit Line, and 494 health workers completed specialised cessation training, contributing to the 375 individuals who stopped smoking.

The ban on vaping products was introduced following a rise in cases involving young people, including school students, which authorities described as a dangerous trend. Importing or trading vape products is now illegal in the Maldives, with enforcement action being taken against those who violate the regulations.

Despite these measures, enforcement of existing tobacco control laws remains inconsistent. Smoking in public spaces and the sale of restricted cigarette products are prohibited under current regulations, yet both practices continue to occur openly in some areas.

Second-hand smoke continues to pose significant health risks, with exposure often unavoidable in densely populated public spaces across the country.