The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has pledged to legalize vapes and reduce cigarette taxes if they return to power.
Party Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail announced the plan at a National Council meeting, saying the MDP would repeal some recent amendments to the Tobacco Control Act and consult the public before introducing new changes.
He also vowed that future MDP government would make legal reforms without altering the constitution, even if political power shifts.
Former Youth Minister Ahmed Mahloof defended the current administration’s policies, arguing that the vape ban and higher tobacco duties protect young people. Writing on X, Mahloof said the measures will save families thousands of rufiyaa and help prevent children from taking up vaping.
The Maldives banned vapes and e-cigarettes on December 15 last year. Violations carry fines between MVR 20,000 and MVR 50,000. Tobacco duties were also doubled, with a 50% import duty plus MVR 8 per cigarette or bidi, up from 25% and MVR 3 previously
