The People’s Majlis has approved the Cabinet’s decision to implement a 'Generational Ban' on tobacco, prohibiting its sale to individuals born in 2007 or later. The measure was passed during Tuesday’s parliamentary sitting.

In late March 2025, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced plans to implement a "generational ban" aimed at distancing Maldivian society from tobacco use, particularly to protect younger generations. During the public consultation period, a majority supported banning tobacco for individuals born in the year 2000 or later.

The government’s proposed amendment to the Tobacco Control Act stipulates that individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 shall not use tobacco products, and that the sale of such products to these individuals is strictly prohibited.

The law also mandates that if the age of a person buying tobacco products is uncertain, their age must be verified through a Maldivian ID card or other official documents proving age.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu first announced the generational ban in the first episode of the ‘Rayyithunnaa Eku’ podcast on March 27.

The bill to amend the Tobacco Control Act was submitted on behalf of the government by Ali Ashrag, the People’s National Congress (PNC) MP for Kinbidhoo constituency.

The bill to amend the Tobacco Control Act was passed at parliament with 63 votes in favor. The only vote against the bill came from Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s MP Ameen Faisal of Kanditheemu constituency. MDP’s Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, MP for Hanimaadhoo constituency, abstained from voting.

The Cabinet's decision was passed and sent to the Majlis floor on Monday by the temporary committee of the People's Majlis formed for the purpose.