The Government will launch a national programme through civil society organisations to help reduce tobacco use, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced.

Speaking during the second episode of Nation Chat, President Dr Muizzu said the Government aims to build a tobacco-free society by supporting associations and community groups working to reduce tobacco use across the Maldives.

Under the programme, associations and community groups working to reduce tobacco use will receive financial assistance and other incentives from the Government.

Noting that the Government is implementing a holistic approach to reduce smoking, President Dr Muizzu said import duty on smoking cessation products will be removed when the programme is introduced.

On the Government's bill submitted to Parliament to reduce import duty on cigarettes, President Dr Muizzu said the proposal was based on recommendations in a World Health Organization (WHO) study.