The Maldives has become the first country to ban smoking for people under 18.
AzEdu.az reports on this, referring to "The Guardian" publication.
Thus, effective from November 1, 2025, citizens born after January 1, 2007, are prohibited from purchasing, using, or possessing tobacco products.
The ban applies to all types of tobacco products, and retailers are obliged to verify the age of buyers.
This measure also applies to tourists. Furthermore, electronic cigarettes and vapes are completely banned for all age groups.
Fines are stipulated for violations of the rules:
- selling tobacco products to a minor - 50,000 rufiya (3,200 dollars);
- using a vape - 5,000 rufiya (320 dollars).
