The Ministry of Health has opened applications for licenses required for businesses dealing in tobacco products.

In an announcement, the Ministry of Health stated that under the Tobacco Control Act and the General Regulations on Tobacco Control, opportunities have been opened for those wishing to obtain the mandatory licenses for tobacco business transactions and to register new tobacco products being imported into the country.

The Ministry of Health also said that a three-month period has been given to apply for permits starting from April 17.

The Ministry of Health said that license applications must be submitted to the Health Protection Agency (HPA) through the "OneGov" portal.

Four types of licenses have been set to be issued for tobacco businesses. These licenses will be issued for a period of five years upon payment of the designated fee. Applications for license renewal must be submitted two months before the expiration of the license period.

The licenses issued for tobacco business include licenses for retail or wholesale of tobacco products, licenses for importing tobacco products, licenses for re-exporting tobacco products, and registration of new tobacco products.

The licenses will be issued for a period of five years upon payment of the specified fee. Those wishing to renew their license must apply 60 days before the expiration date.

Retail or wholesale of tobacco products can be done by paying a fee of MVR 5,000. The same amount must be paid to renew this license.

A fee of MVR 10,000 must be paid for licenses to import and re-export tobacco products. A fee of MVR 10,000 will be charged for permits for smoking rooms or smoking areas specially designated for tobacco use in places such as hotels, cafes, and restaurants. The same amount must be paid to renew these licenses as well.

When applying for the services, attention has been urged to the "Service Guidelines and Conditions" published on the portal related to that service.

Further, the ministry has requested to call the OneGov hotline number 1500 or email [email protected] if any issues arise while submitting applications through the portal.

After the application window for tobacco business permits, it is prohibited to conduct such business without a license. Licenses will be revoked for those who conduct business in violation of regulations.