HPA Inspects 230 Premises Enforcing Tobacco Ban in Male' Region, Advises 97

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has inspected 230 premises in the Male' region, including hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shops, to enforce the Tobacco Control Act. The inspections aimed to check compliance with smoking bans and the validity of tobacco sales licenses. Out of the inspected premises, 97 were issued advisory notices for violations. The inspections covered 130 restaurants, cafes, and hotels, and 96 shops, with four additional premises inspected based on public complaints. The HPA noted that 53 establishments in the restaurant, cafe, and hotel category and 44 shops received advisories to rectify violations. Under the Tobacco Control Act, authorities have the power to temporarily suspend or cancel business licenses of violators. The government has taken several anti-tobacco measures, including banning vapes and increasing cigarette taxes, although taxes were later reduced.