President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that his administration does not intend to increase state revenue by raising taxes on tobacco products.
Speaking at a meeting with residents of Un’goofaaru in North Maalhosmadulu Atoll, the President addressed concerns about the government’s measures on tobacco use. He clarified that these steps were not taken to benefit certain groups but were intended to encourage healthier lifestyles by discouraging smoking.
The President emphasized that the government aims to free people from the harms of tobacco use, highlighting that recent tax increases on tobacco products were implemented to dissuade smoking rather than as a revenue-generating measure.
While discussing vaping, President Muizzu pointed out that it is a relatively new trend and not as deeply ingrained as smoking. He explained that banning both simultaneously would not be practical. Instead, he stressed a phased approach, beginning with discouraging tobacco use through price hikes.
The President also expressed his concern over the health consequences of smoking, reiterating his administration’s commitment to promoting public health by reducing tobacco consumption.
His remarks underline the government's focus on balancing public health initiatives with practical measures to achieve long-term behavioral change.
Speaking at a meeting with residents of Un’goofaaru in North Maalhosmadulu Atoll, the President addressed concerns about the government’s measures on tobacco use. He clarified that these steps were not taken to benefit certain groups but were intended to encourage healthier lifestyles by discouraging smoking.
The President emphasized that the government aims to free people from the harms of tobacco use, highlighting that recent tax increases on tobacco products were implemented to dissuade smoking rather than as a revenue-generating measure.
While discussing vaping, President Muizzu pointed out that it is a relatively new trend and not as deeply ingrained as smoking. He explained that banning both simultaneously would not be practical. Instead, he stressed a phased approach, beginning with discouraging tobacco use through price hikes.
The President also expressed his concern over the health consequences of smoking, reiterating his administration’s commitment to promoting public health by reducing tobacco consumption.
His remarks underline the government's focus on balancing public health initiatives with practical measures to achieve long-term behavioral change.
