President Muizzu Outlines Phased Strategy to Create Tobacco-Free Maldivian Society

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced a strategic, phased approach to eliminate tobacco use across the Maldives, emphasizing a shift from reactive healthcare to proactive prevention. Speaking during the second episode of the ‘Nation Chat’ programme on PSM News, the President detailed a comprehensive health policy designed to distance citizens from tobacco consumption to ensure a healthier national future. The government's strategy involves a combination of legislative bans and fiscal adjustments. President Muizzu highlighted the recent decision to ban vaping devices and the introduction of a generational smoking ban as critical steps in protecting younger demographics. To prevent youth from pivoting to traditional cigarettes following the vaping ban, the administration initially increased duties on tobacco products. According to the President, the impact of these measures has been positive. In collaboration with the World Health Organization, the government analyzed specific rate benchmarks to calibrate the financial burden on consumers. Based on these metrics, the administration has decided to reduce the previously elevated specific duty rate to MVR 4 (approximately USD 0.26). President Muizzu explained that modifying the duty structure is intended to facilitate a smoother transition for those struggling with highly detrimental tobacco addictions, rather than creating an insurmountable financial barrier. This fiscal adjustment is part of a broader effort to move the population toward total cessation. Beyond legislation and taxes, the government is launching a specialized national programme focused on community-level intervention. This initiative will leverage local island associations and community organizations to systematically cultivate tobacco-free environments on a per-island basis, ensuring that the transition to a healthier society is supported by grassroots engagement.