Government Submits Amendments to Increase Tobacco Import Duties and Ban E-Cigarettes

The government has submitted proposed amendments to the Export Import Act aimed at increasing import duties on tobacco and related products in an effort to curb tobacco use. The bill was presented to Parliament by MP Ibrahim Mohamed.

The amendments propose significant increases in duties on cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping-related products. Additionally, the importation of e-cigarettes, vape products, and related items will be banned from November 15 onwards.

Attorney General Ahmed Usham explained the details of the proposed changes, which include a 25% duty and a MVR 3.08 charge per cigarette. Vaping flavors and chemicals will incur a 50% duty and a MVR 8 per milliliter tax on items imported before the ban takes effect. Heated tobacco products will also face a 50% duty and a MVR 8 charge per stick, while e-cigarettes and vaping devices will be subject to a 200% duty.

The government expects to collect approximately MVR 1 billion in revenue from these new import duties next year. The proposed amendments also outline specific conditions for exemptions on import duties and royalties.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu confirmed that the duties on cigarettes and tobacco products will be raised starting next month, and announced a nationwide ban on vaping, effective December 15. Import restrictions on vaping devices and components will commence on November 15.

The new measures aim to tackle tobacco consumption in the Maldives and align with the government’s broader health objectives.