The Maldives Police Service has reported that several individuals were fined in December and January for violating the Tobacco Control Act, specifically for the possession and use of vape products following the nationwide ban on e-cigarettes and vaping devices.

According to police, 17 individuals were fined for 20 violations of the Tobacco Control Act between December 15, 2024, and the end of the month. In January, an additional 12 individuals were fined in 14 separate cases.

The fines come in the wake of the Government’s decision to enforce a ban on vape products and e-cigarettes, which took effect on December 15, 2024.

Under the new regulations, strict penalties have been introduced to deter the import, sale, and use of vaping devices. Importing vaping products now carries a base fine of MVR 50,000, with an additional MVR 10,000 imposed for each device or product. Selling vaping devices results in a penalty of MVR 20,000, with an extra MVR 10,000 for each unit sold.

The possession and use of vape products carry a fine of MVR 5,000, while selling or distributing vape products to minors incurs a severe penalty of MVR 50,000.

The Maldives Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to strictly enforcing the new regulations, warning that legal action will be taken against individuals found selling, distributing, or sharing electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. Offenders will receive notifications of violations via text message, which will include a secure Vaaru Pay link for convenient online payment of fines.