The World Health Organization (WHO) has praised President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent decision to ban the importation of vaping products in the Maldives, calling it a critical step in addressing the growing use of e-cigarettes, particularly among young people.
In a post shared by WHO’s Southeast Asia office on social media, the organization expressed its support for the move, highlighting the rising number of vape users in the region. According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey, 23.1% of boys and 10.7% of girls aged 13 to 15 in the Maldives reported using e-cigarettes. WHO noted that this trend is particularly concerning as it poses significant health risks.
“The growing use of novel and emerging nicotine and tobacco products (NENTPs), including electronic cigarettes and other vaping devices, among youth across the region is alarming,” WHO said in its statement. It further stressed that all forms of tobacco and nicotine use are harmful, increasing the risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, chronic lung conditions, and diabetes.
President Muizzu announced the vape ban via a social media post, stating that the import of vaping equipment and related products will be prohibited starting from November 15. In addition, he has directed authorities to implement a nationwide ban on the sale, possession, manufacture, and distribution of these products, effective from December 15.
The President’s decision has garnered widespread support, with various political leaders, healthcare professionals, and educators applauding the move. Many have emphasized the importance of protecting public health, particularly for the younger generation, who are most vulnerable to the harmful effects of vaping.
In its congratulatory message, WHO emphasized that the Maldives’ initiative is an important milestone in the fight against tobacco-related diseases and urged other nations in the region to follow suit. The organization noted that strong measures like this can help curb the rising trend of e-cigarette use, which has become a growing public health concern worldwide.
With the ban, the Maldives joins other nations that have taken proactive steps to address the vaping epidemic, aiming to reduce nicotine addiction and prevent future health crises associated with its use.
