President Muizzu to Propose Raising Legal Age for Tobacco Sales to 21 in New Tobacco Control Legislation

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration will propose key amendments to the Tobacco Control Act in Parliament tomorrow, including raising the legal minimum age for purchasing and handling tobacco products from 18 to 21 years. This step is part of the government’s broader initiative to reduce tobacco consumption and protect younger generations from nicotine addiction.

The proposal comes in the wake of President Muizzu’s recent decision to ban the import and use of vaping devices, a move finalized on October 15 as part of his ongoing anti-tobacco campaign. While the vaping ban takes effect in stages, with a complete prohibition by December 15, the upcoming parliamentary amendments will primarily focus on tobacco regulation.

In addition to raising the legal age, the new legislation aims to introduce stricter penalties for violations of the Tobacco Control Act, targeting illegal sales and distribution networks that contribute to underage access to tobacco products.

Health experts and public health advocates have welcomed the new measures, emphasizing that raising the legal age for tobacco sales will significantly curb access among younger populations and contribute to reducing long-term health risks associated with nicotine.

President Muizzu’s administration has made combating tobacco use a central component of its public health strategy, calling on the public and enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the new regulations. The amendments will be introduced in Parliament for debate tomorrow.