The government has revised its tobacco control regulations, now granting law enforcement agencies the authority to confiscate electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, which are banned under national law.
As of 15 November 2024, the importation of all vaping devices and products was prohibited following an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act. By 15 December 2024, the sale, use, or distribution of these devices had been outlawed.
Law enforcement agencies have since been actively enforcing these new restrictions nationwide. The earlier regulations did not grant law enforcement the power to confiscate vaping devices. The latest revisions rectify this issue, enabling authorities to seize all such devices.
Additionally, the revised regulations impose a fine of USD 3,243.51 on individuals who refuse to surrender their vaping devices. If a vaping device is discovered during a search related to an unrelated court warrant, according to the regulation, no additional court warrant is required for its confiscation.
Individuals found with vaping devices face a fine of USD 129.73. Business entities obstructing the confiscation will incur a fine of USD 6,484.33 and potential revocation of their business licences, as per the regulation.
Fines must be paid in full to the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) within 14 days. Non-compliance empowers the Ministry of Health to revoke the entity's tobacco trade licence and pursue legal remedies for payment.
Entities disputing authorities' actions may file a complaint with the health ministry, which is obliged to investigate, review, and respond within 15 days. The Maldives Police Service (MPS), the ministry responsible for implementing the administration’s economic policies, city councils, and island councils are authorised to enforce these regulations and impose fines.