The Government has stated that consultations are underway with relevant stakeholders on revising cigarette duty rates in line with recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office to mark World No Tobacco Day, Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan described the decision to impose a specific duty of MVR 8 per cigarette as one of the most difficult measures taken by the Government.

The minister said duties and taxes on tobacco products are widely used around the world as a tobacco control tool. However, he noted that the increase in cigarette duty was introduced alongside the vape ban to discourage vape users from switching to conventional cigarettes after vaping products were prohibited in the Maldives.

Minister Ihusaan said studies conducted before the implementation of the vape ban indicated that many users who stopped vaping could turn to cigarette smoking. He added that the Government had therefore used cigarette duties as a broader tobacco control strategy while working to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the vape ban.

The minister noted that the WHO has recommended a specific cigarette duty rate of MVR 4 for 2026. He said the Government's intention has always been to adjust cigarette duties based on research findings and developments within the tobacco market, while maintaining tobacco control objectives.

He further stated that discussions are ongoing with all relevant stakeholders before a final decision is made on revising cigarette duties. Should the Government decide to proceed with changes in line with WHO recommendations, the proposed amendments will be submitted to the People's Majlis for consideration.

Minister Ihusaan added that any future revisions to cigarette duties would be guided by technical assessments and recommendations from health experts and international organisations, including the WHO, while taking into account changes in the tobacco market.