E-cigarettes banned in the Maldives

Starting next Friday, the Maldives will enforce a strict ban on the import of all types of e-cigarettes. Travelers who vape should plan to leave their devices at home, as any attempts to bring them into the country will result in confiscation.

This import ban is just the first step: beginning December 15, the Maldives will also prohibit the possession, sale, use, and advertising of e-cigarettes. Travelers and residents should be aware of the comprehensive nature of this new regulation. The island paradise is receiving support from the World Health Organization (WHO), which views these bans as an important measure to curb the increasing use of e-cigarettes, particularly among young people.

The Maldives recently introduced stricter regulations for conventional cigarettes as well. Under a now-withdrawn rule, travelers were permitted to bring only a single open pack of cigarettes with a maximum of 19 cigarettes, with any full 20-packs subject to confiscation. Although this rule is no longer in effect, it underscores how seriously Maldivian authorities are addressing tobacco control.

According to the latest regulation from the Maldives Customs Service, tourists with a valid visa are allowed to bring in up to 200 conventional cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco for personal use. If these limits are exceeded, customs will hold the excess items for up to 30 days, allowing travelers to retrieve them before their return flight.