Maldives’ vape ban effective from Nov 15 to include tourists

Tourists visiting the Maldives will also be subject to a ban on importing and using vaping devices, according to homeland secuity minister Ali Ihsan.

The government has announced a comprehensive prohibition on the import, use, and distribution of all types of vaping devices, which will come into effect in the coming months.

Starting from November 15, the import of vaping equipment and its parts will be banned. Following this, from December 15, the use, possession, manufacture, sale, advertising, and free distribution of vaping devices will be prohibited.

In a press conference held at the President’s Office on Tuesday, Ihsan confirmed that the ban will also apply to tourists entering the Maldives. Responding to questions from the press, Ihsan stated, “From November 15, if anyone enters the Maldives and attempts to bring vape devices, we will intercept them at the border.” He also clarified that from December 15, tourists will be prohibited from using vape devices in the country.

When asked whether exceptions could be made for tourists, Ihsan said there are currently no plans to offer special provisions under the law.

“Other governments may decide to offer tourists special status, similar to the way alcohol is allowed in resorts. However, we have no intention of doing so at this time,” he added.

Ihsan addressed multiple questions regarding the government’s decision, highlighting concerns over the increasing use of vaping devices among youth. He mentioned that vaping has been used as a method to introduce harmful substances to students, and incidents of bullying related to vaping have been reported.

Ihsan noted that there have been reports of students being forced to use vape devices by their peers, particularly in schools. He added that the Ministry of Education had confiscated thousands of vape devices from schools over the past year, underscoring the severity of the issue.