Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has said that efforts are underway to control the import of tobacco products.
In his nationwide address to coincide with World No Tobacco Day, the Health Minister stated that work is underway to stop the import of tobacco products, unless packaging shows images and messages warning users of the damage it could cause. Minister Nazim stated that government is trying to stop the import of such products completely.
The Minister assured that E-cigarettes, Shisha and Vapes which are being consumed by many young people today must be controlled, and that the government efforts to this effect are endless. Furthermore, he noted the dangers of tobacco consumption and how it affects the development of the country.
Expressing concern over the increase in tobacco consumption among youth, the minister highlighted the fact that it affects the future of the youth population. Health Minister Nazim urged all parties to work together to end tobacco consumption of.
The administration of President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom aims to build a generation which is healthy and responsible, by prioritizing youth empowerment.