ourists visiting the Maldives will also be affected by a ban on the import and use of vaping devices, as announced by the Minister of Homeland Security, Ali Ihsan.

The government has declared a comprehensive ban on the import, usage, and distribution of all types of vaping devices, which will take effect in the coming months.

Starting from November 15, importing vaping devices and their components will be prohibited. Following this, from December 15, the use, possession, manufacture, sale, advertisement, and free distribution of vaping devices will also be banned.

During a press conference at the President’s Office on Tuesday, Ihsan confirmed that the ban extends to tourists entering the Maldives. He stated, “From November 15, if anyone attempts to bring vape devices into the Maldives, we will confiscate them at the border.” He further clarified that tourists will also be prohibited from using vape devices in the country from December 15 onwards.

When asked if there would be any exemptions for tourists, Ihsan mentioned that no special provisions under the law are planned.

“While some countries may grant tourists special exceptions, such as allowing alcohol in resorts, we have no intention of doing so for vaping devices,” he added.

Addressing multiple inquiries about the government’s decision, Ihsan emphasized the growing concerns over vaping among youth. He pointed out that vaping has been used as a way to introduce harmful substances to students, with reported cases of bullying linked to its use.

Ihsan also revealed that there have been instances where students were coerced by their peers into using vape devices, especially in schools. He noted that the Ministry of Education had confiscated thousands of vape devices from schools over the past year, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.