Tax increases will reduce tobacco use among the ordinary lower classes, Maafannu Hulhangu MP Musthafa Ibrahim said today.
During the debate on the tobacco tax bill in Parliament, Musthafa noted that the youth of the Maldives often turn to vaping in search of cheaper alternatives following tax hikes on cigarettes. However, he pointed out that this has led to the misuse of vaping products.
Musthafa emphasized that the youth do not want to become victims of tobacco. He expressed optimism that with the government's proposed changes, the Maldives could become a tobacco-free country.
He stated that the increase in tobacco taxes will make it less accessible for ordinary children to use these products. He explained that people living typical lives will likely reduce their tobacco consumption, as highlighted in international treaties to which the Maldives is a signatory.
Additionally, he remarked that tobacco products are less consumed in countries where they are produced, but rather in lower-class regions, including the Maldives.
During the debate on the tobacco tax bill in Parliament, Musthafa noted that the youth of the Maldives often turn to vaping in search of cheaper alternatives following tax hikes on cigarettes. However, he pointed out that this has led to the misuse of vaping products.
Musthafa emphasized that the youth do not want to become victims of tobacco. He expressed optimism that with the government's proposed changes, the Maldives could become a tobacco-free country.
He stated that the increase in tobacco taxes will make it less accessible for ordinary children to use these products. He explained that people living typical lives will likely reduce their tobacco consumption, as highlighted in international treaties to which the Maldives is a signatory.
Additionally, he remarked that tobacco products are less consumed in countries where they are produced, but rather in lower-class regions, including the Maldives.
