MALDIVES: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu reports that the tobacco-control measures put in place by his administration are showing positive results, with many people quitting smoking. His administration has taken several steps to control tobacco use, such as banning vapes and e-cigarettes, doubling the import duty and value-added tax on cigarettes, and introducing a general smoking ban that will start this Saturday. This ban will prevent all Maldivians born in 2007 or later from smoking. He also mentioned that improving healthcare will be the main focus of next year’s budget.
However, the vape ban and increased cigarette import taxes have led to an illegal market where cheaper brands are being smuggled and sold. This situation has caused the government to lose millions of rufiyaa in import revenue.
- Lord, we pray for the leadership of the Maldives, particularly President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his administration, that they would be granted wisdom and integrity to address the public health and economic issues created by the new tobacco-control measures. The emergence of an illegal market suggests that the current approach may have unintended consequences (The Holy Bible, Psalm 89:14).
- Lord, we pray for the Maldivians who are struggling with addiction to be set free and find healing. Pray also for the dismantling of the illegal market for smuggled cigarettes and for the conversion of those involved in this illicit trade (The Holy Bible, John 8:36).
News Source: SunOnline International
Image Source: Canva
