The Maldives’ government has submitted a bill proposing significant increases in import duties on tobacco products as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce smoking and tobacco use. The amendments to the Export Import Act, which include higher duties on both traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes, are set to come into effect next month.
The bill, which was announced following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent statements on tobacco control, aims to impose stricter financial measures on the import of tobacco. Under the proposed changes, the import duty on cigarettes will increase to 25% along with an additional charge of MVR 3 per cigarette.
In addition to traditional tobacco products, the amendments will also target vaping products. Flavors and chemicals used in e-cigarettes, as well as related vape products, will face a 50% duty and an additional charge of MVR 8 per milliliter. Furthermore, heated tobacco products, including those used in e-cigarettes, will be taxed at a rate of 50%, with MVR 8 applied to each unit. The government has also proposed a 200% import duty on devices used for vaping and e-cigarettes.
As part of the government’s broader anti-tobacco initiative, the import of e-cigarettes, vaping products, and related chemicals will be completely banned after November 15, 2024, in an effort to curb their growing use in the Maldives.
During a press briefing, Attorney General Ahmed Usham elaborated on the financial implications of the bill, revealing that the government expects to generate MVR 1.05 billion in revenue from the new import duties by next year. Usham also noted that these changes would bring clarity to the circumstances under which import duty and royalty revenue can be exempted, addressing gaps in the current legal framework.
The proposed amendments reflect the government’s commitment to promoting public health by reducing the availability and appeal of tobacco products, including those related to vaping. With the new measures in place, officials hope to encourage a decline in tobacco use across the country while generating substantial revenue through import duties.
