Maldives to ban shisha
In addition to the ban on shisha, the government is considering increasing sugar taxes and eliminating sugar subsidies as part of a broader public health initiative. These measures will be implemented in phases, focusing on public awareness and lifestyle adjustments to ensure a smooth transition. The Health Minister highlighted that, similar to the recent bans on tobacco and vaping, these steps are crucial in the national effort to combat non-communicable diseases and protect public health.
Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has stated that discussions are currently underway regarding a potential ban on shisha in the Maldives. | RaajjeMV | RaajjeMV
Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has revealed that, alongside the ban on shisha in the Maldives, discussions are underway to introduce a sugar tax and eliminate existing sugar subsidies.
Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office on Thursday, Minister Nazim stated that following the ban on shisha and the removal of sugar subsidies, the government will conduct public awareness campaigns and implement the necessary measures regarding the subsequent taxation.
The Minister stated that banning shisha, abolishing sugar subsidies, and introducing a sugar tax are measures that could be implemented in the future. He emphasized the importance of taking these steps at the most opportune moment.
You have touched upon the issues we are currently discussing extensively, specifically regarding shisha and sugar consumption. From a public health perspective, the most critical priority is to increase public awareness, as Asima noted, and to implement the necessary measures through a phased, step-by-step approach.Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim
Minister Nazim stated that since these practices are deeply ingrained and intertwined with the public's lifestyle, it is essential to manage them through a structured framework. Consequently, the Minister noted that the government has decided to implement measures only after raising public awareness and ensuring the community is adequately prepared.
Minister Nazim stated that one of the government's most significant achievements last year was implementing essential measures to address the issue of tobacco and enforcing the relevant legislation.
Last year, the government prohibited the import and use of vaping products in the Maldives, increased taxes on tobacco, and introduced a generational tobacco ban.
The Minister stated that implementing measures on sugar, similar to those recently imposed on tobacco and shisha, is part of the government's broader efforts to protect public health and build a healthier generation in the Maldives.
The introduction of a sugar tax and the removal of subsidies are expected to have a significant impact on the livelihoods of the general public.
