President Muizzu Vows to Protect Youth Through Historic Generational Tobacco Ban

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the administration's commitment to shielding the younger generation from the hazards of tobacco and nicotine addiction. Marking World No Tobacco Day on May 31, the President emphasized that the government will remain vigilant against evolving threats, including flavored nicotine pouches and AI-driven marketing targeting minors. The Maldives has gained international attention as the first nation to implement a "generational ban" on tobacco. This sweeping policy, which took effect on November 1 last year, explicitly prohibits the sale and use of tobacco products for anyone born after 2007. The initiative also includes a comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes, aiming to break the cycle of addiction before it begins. President Muizzu outlined a multifaceted strategy to strengthen tobacco control, which includes expanding cessation services and establishing dedicated clinics to help current users quit. The administration is also prioritizing the designation of smoke-free jurisdictions and pursuing further legislative reforms to close loopholes and safeguard public health. Supporting this mission, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed urged the public to recognize their shared responsibility in protecting future generations. She highlighted that while the nation has taken historic legal steps, continued awareness and community education are essential to ensure Maldivian youth remain free from nicotine dependence. To curb the prevalence of tobacco, the government has already implemented several structural reforms. These include raising the minimum legal purchasing age from 18 to 21 and increasing import duties to make products less accessible. Additionally, new regulatory mandates require all tobacco imports to carry explicit, detailed health warnings regarding the dangers of use. President Muizzu concluded by calling for a collaborative national effort, stating that the goal of a healthy, tobacco-free nation can only be achieved through the combined action of the state and its citizens.