Smoking banned for entire generation under sweeping new national law

Anyone living in the Maldives born after Jan. 1, 2007, may be affected by the first-ever generational smoking ban.On Nov. 1, a new law — proposed by the country’s President Mohamed Muizzu earlier this year — took effect in the country, banning an entire generation from smoking, purchasing or using tobacco.In a press release, the Ministry of Health called it a "historic milestone in the nation’s efforts to protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation."DEADLY DRUG MIX DRIVES STAGGERING RISE IN OVERDOSE DEATHS AMONG SENIORSThe ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify the age of users prior to any sale.The Maldives also maintains a complete ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products, regardless of age."The Generational Ban on Tobacco reflects the Government’s strong commitment to protecting young people from the harms of tobacco," the Ministry… ...[TheTopNews] Read More.