WHO Welcomes Gov’t Move to Restrict Tobacco Use by Generation
The World Health Organization South-East Asia (WHO) has welcomed the government’s decision to implement a generational tobacco ban, describing it as a significant and necessary step towards achieving a tobacco-free future.
Congratulations #Maldives on the bold step towards a tobacco-free 🚭 generation!
👉🏾 The landmark decision approving a generational #tobacco ban that prohibits the sale and use of tobacco to anyone born on or after January 1, 2007, marks a pivotal leap forward in tobacco control… pic.twitter.com/tCR2Jt1Xsf— World Health Organization South-East Asia (@WHOSEARO) May 14, 2025advertisement
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On Tuesday, Parliament passed a bill that prohibits the use and sale of tobacco products to individuals born on or after 1 January 2007. This policy is designed to gradually eliminate tobacco consumption by preventing the youngest generation from legally accessing tobacco.
The WHO highlighted that this landmark decision represents a major advancement in tobacco control efforts. It is the first initiative of its kind in the WHO South-East Asia Region and demonstrates regional leadership in promoting public health.
The new legislation builds on existing rules, which currently ban the sale of tobacco to people under 21, a restriction introduced through an amendment last year. The recent bill extends these provisions by making it illegal for anyone born on or after 1 January 2007 to consume tobacco or related products. Additionally, it prohibits any individual or business from selling or trading tobacco products to this group, as well as to anyone under the age of 18.
