375 people quit smoking last year as over 2,000 seek cessation support: HPA

Last year, 375 people quit smoking in Maldives, while 2,003 individuals sought cessation services, according to new figures released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

The government has recently intensified its anti‑tobacco measures, increasing cigarette duty, banning the import and sale of vapes, and introducing a ‘generational ban’ that prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone born in or after 2005.

Following these measures, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has also announced a cash reward for island residents who quit smoking entirely.

At a press conference held at the President’s Office on Thursday, the HPA highlighted the following statistics for 2023:

• 2,003 people received cessation services  

• 770 people used the National Quit Line  

• 375 people quit smoking altogether  

• 494 health workers completed cessation training  

The government’s decision to ban vaping came after a surge in cases involving young people, including school students, who were affected by what authorities described as a “dangerous epidemic”. Importing or trading vape products is now illegal in Maldives, and action is being taken against violators.

Despite these measures, many tobacco regulations remain poorly enforced. Smoking in public spaces and the sale of certain restricted cigarette products are legally prohibited, yet both continue openly with limited enforcement.

Secondhand smoke poses serious health risks, but in Maldives, escaping exposure is often difficult, especially in crowded public areas and streets.