Parliament Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim has emphasized that merely increasing taxes on tobacco products is insufficient to effectively combat tobacco consumption in the Maldives. During a recent debate on a bill aimed at raising taxes on tobacco, Nazim called for the proper enforcement of tobacco regulations alongside any fiscal measures.
He stated that changes in the law must be accompanied by effective implementation to genuinely discourage the public from using tobacco products. Nazim highlighted the importance of government agencies enforcing the regulations established under the Tobacco Act, arguing that without effective enforcement, increasing cigarette prices will not resolve the issue.
Nazim further noted that while some countries have successfully raised cigarette prices as a deterrent, this approach must be part of a broader strategy that includes stringent regulatory actions.
His comments underscore the Maldivian government’s commitment to tackling tobacco consumption through comprehensive measures that combine fiscal policies with regulatory enforcement, aiming to promote public health and reduce tobacco-related harm.
He stated that changes in the law must be accompanied by effective implementation to genuinely discourage the public from using tobacco products. Nazim highlighted the importance of government agencies enforcing the regulations established under the Tobacco Act, arguing that without effective enforcement, increasing cigarette prices will not resolve the issue.
Nazim further noted that while some countries have successfully raised cigarette prices as a deterrent, this approach must be part of a broader strategy that includes stringent regulatory actions.
His comments underscore the Maldivian government’s commitment to tackling tobacco consumption through comprehensive measures that combine fiscal policies with regulatory enforcement, aiming to promote public health and reduce tobacco-related harm.
