Maldives Customs Seizes Largest Vape Shipment Valued at MVR 2.7 Million

The Maldives Customs Service announced on Wednesday that the largest shipment of vape products seized since the ban was imposed last year is valued at MVR 2.7 million. The agency conducted a special operation last Thursday after suspecting that a shipment brought to the Maldives by sea contained illegal goods. During the operation, 10,800 vape cartridges were discovered hidden inside the cargo. Customs estimated the street value of the seized items at MVR 2.7 million, marking the largest interception since the import ban took effect on November 15, 2024. The agency is continuing to investigate the case and noted that over 66,000 vapes have been confiscated since the ban was enforced. Vaping is strictly prohibited in the Maldives, with penalties for importation, sale, and use of e-cigarettes. Selling such products to minors carries a fine of MVR 50,000. In October, 35 individuals were fined a total of MVR 226,000 for violations related to vaping and tobacco sales.