The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has revealed that food-related posts on social media will not be considered as advertisements following increased public criticism of the regulation regarding food advertising.

A press release issued by MFDA on 1 March 2025 reads that according to regulations, permission must be sought from the authority for activities conducted to promote the acceptability of food items or ingredients used in food production.

The statement goes on to read that "food advertisements and posts made through virtual platforms or social media by those who prepare food at home or other similar parties for income generation, claiming to have specific food items and services like restaurant menus, do not require permission as advertisements."

However, it has also been stated that if the food items included in such posts are referred to as unmatched or if any phrases or photos comparing them to other food items are used, it is prohibited to use them without permission.

At a time MFDA has issued a statement interpreting the regulation, Article 3(a) of the regulation states that "any party wishing to advertise any type of food product must submit the advertisement to the authority and obtain written permission from the authority before using it as an advertisement."

In addition to this, the regulation states that direct or indirect communication to the general public for commercial purposes, whether for buying and selling food or food ingredients used in food production, is considered food advertising.

According to the regulation, communication refers to any activity aimed at promoting the popularity of a particular type or item through audio, visual, video, or any other medium using print or electronic media, internet, or any other medium.

As no exceptions were highlighted in the regulation regarding food advertising as defined, confusion arose within the public and the regulation has become the target of criticism from many. According to current regulations, food products can only be advertised with the permission of the Food and Drug Authority, and a fee must be paid for each permit. Permission is required to be obtained every time a change is made to an advertisement.