The Maldivian government has proposed an increase in the duty on cigarettes and vaping products, with the bill now sent to the Parliament committee for further examination.
The bill passed in the House of Representatives, receiving 65 votes in favor out of 71 total members, with three members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) opposing the legislation.
The proposed legislation aims to raise the import duty on tobacco products significantly. It includes a 200% increase in the duty on vaping devices until a complete ban is enacted. Additionally, the bill seeks a 50% increase in the duty on cigarettes and beedis, as well as on heated tobacco products.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the new specific and ad valorem rates of import duty on cigarettes and beedis will take effect on November 1. Furthermore, the government plans to ban the import of vaping products starting November 15.
In tandem with these measures, the government also intends to amend existing laws to establish a minimum age of 21 years for purchasing tobacco products. These initiatives are part of the government's broader efforts to reduce tobacco consumption and promote public health in the Maldives.
The bill passed in the House of Representatives, receiving 65 votes in favor out of 71 total members, with three members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) opposing the legislation.
The proposed legislation aims to raise the import duty on tobacco products significantly. It includes a 200% increase in the duty on vaping devices until a complete ban is enacted. Additionally, the bill seeks a 50% increase in the duty on cigarettes and beedis, as well as on heated tobacco products.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the new specific and ad valorem rates of import duty on cigarettes and beedis will take effect on November 1. Furthermore, the government plans to ban the import of vaping products starting November 15.
In tandem with these measures, the government also intends to amend existing laws to establish a minimum age of 21 years for purchasing tobacco products. These initiatives are part of the government's broader efforts to reduce tobacco consumption and promote public health in the Maldives.
