Maldives Begins ‘Generational Ban’ on Smoking: A Bold Step Toward a Tobacco-Free Future
The Maldives becomes the first nation to enforce a generational smoking ban, prohibiting tobacco use for anyone born after January 1, 2007, in a global push for a smoke-free future.
A Historic Move in Public Health
In a landmark decision, the Maldives has officially implemented a “generational smoking ban,” making it the first nation in the world to prohibit the sale and use of tobacco for anyone born after January 1, 2007. The ban, which took effect on November 1, 2025, marks a decisive step toward protecting future generations from the devastating effects of smoking and nicotine addiction.
President Mohamed Muizzu’s government initiated the measure earlier this year, describing it as a “turning point in the nation’s commitment to public health.” The policy not only covers Maldivian citizens but also extends to visitors, signaling the government’s zero-tolerance approach to tobacco use across its islands.
What the Ban Entails
Under the new provision, individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, are strictly prohibited from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products within the Maldives. The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless alternatives. Retailers are now legally required to verify the age of customers before any sale.
According to the Maldivian Ministry of Health, this generational ban aims to “build a tobacco-free generation and protect young people from nicotine dependency.” Officials emphasized that this initiative aligns with global efforts to reduce smoking-related deaths and illnesses, which continue to claim millions of lives each year.
A Global Context: Other Countries’ Efforts
The Maldives’ decision has reignited global conversations about generational smoking bans. Several countries have attempted similar policies in recent years, though few have succeeded in sustaining them.
In 2019, the UK government announced plans for England to become “smoke-free” by 2030, proposing legislation that would phase out tobacco sales for anyone aged 15 or younger. Britain’s upcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill seeks to prevent future generations from ever buying cigarettes.
Similarly, New Zealand passed a groundbreaking law in 2022, prohibiting the sale of tobacco to anyone born after January 1, 2009. However, the new government repealed the measure before it came into force, citing economic concerns and the risk of a black market.
By contrast, the Maldives has taken a firm stance—positioning itself as a global pioneer in health policy and tobacco control.
The Toll of Tobacco: A Global Health Crisis
Despite decades of anti-tobacco campaigns, 1.2 billion people worldwide still use tobacco products. Nicotine, the addictive substance in tobacco, contributes to a host of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and is linked to over 20 different types of cancer.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco use kills more than 7 million people annually, with an additional 1.6 million deaths attributed to second-hand smoke exposure. Most of these fatalities occur in low- and middle-income countries—regions that face aggressive marketing from tobacco companies and limited access to cessation support.
Smoking during pregnancy can lead to lifelong health problems in infants, including low birth weight, asthma, and developmental issues. Long-term smokers are also at increased risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and stillbirth.
India’s Battle Against Tobacco
Neighboring India, home to one of the world’s largest populations of tobacco users, has made consistent strides in tobacco control.
The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), enacted in 2003, remains the cornerstone of India’s anti-tobacco efforts. India has also ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and launched the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) in 2007–08, aiming to:
- Raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use
- Reduce production and supply of tobacco products
- Enforce anti-tobacco laws
- Support cessation through Tobacco Cessation Centres
To counter the growing popularity of vaping, India introduced the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) in 2019, banning all e-cigarette sales and production nationwide.
Both COTPA and PECA are enforced at the state level, supported by State and District Tobacco Control Cells, which conduct regular monitoring and public drives.
Digital Platforms: The New Frontier in Tobacco Control
Recognizing the influence of entertainment media, India has extended its anti-tobacco regulations to digital streaming platforms. On World No Tobacco Day 2023, the government amended its Tobacco-Free Films and Television Rules (2012) to include over-the-top (OTT) services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ Hotstar.
Under the new rules:
- Anti-tobacco health spots (30 seconds) must appear at the start and midpoint of programs showing tobacco use.
- A static warning must remain visible whenever tobacco appears on screen.
- A 20-second disclaimer about tobacco’s harms must be shown in the same language as the content.
With these changes, India became the first country in the world to regulate tobacco depictions on digital platforms—an acknowledgment that media portrayals can normalize smoking among young viewers.
Public Reaction and Expert Insight
Public health experts have praised the Maldives for taking an uncompromising stance against tobacco. Dr. Aishath Ahmed, a Maldivian public health specialist, noted, “This ban is not about restricting freedom—it’s about giving future generations the freedom to live healthier, longer lives.”
Some industry voices, however, warn that prohibitive measures could drive tobacco use underground. They argue that education and cessation programs should accompany bans to prevent black-market growth.
Tourism analysts believe the impact on visitors will be minimal, as smoking is already restricted in most public spaces, resorts, and transportation zones across the islands.
A Blueprint for the Future
The Maldives’ generational smoking ban is more than a national policy—it’s a symbol of a shifting global consciousness. As countries grapple with the health and economic toll of tobacco, generational bans could redefine how societies approach public health.
If the policy succeeds, it could serve as a model for small nations and island economies seeking to balance tourism with wellness and sustainability goals.
Conclusion: A Smoke-Free Horizon
The Maldives’ bold step could mark the beginning of a global movement toward tobacco eradication. While enforcement and education will be key to its success, the policy represents a visionary stand against one of the world’s deadliest habits.
As one of the smallest nations on Earth takes the lead, the message is clear: the future belongs to smoke-free generations.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Readers should consult official government or health sources for updated guidelines on tobacco regulations.