President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s proposed Generation Ban on tobacco sales has caught the attention of major international tobacco companies, according to Tobacco Reporter, a global publication focused on developments in the tobacco industry.

The President outlined the proposal during the second episode of Rayyithunnaa Eku, a podcast hosted by the President’s Office. The initiative aims to protect future generations by gradually restricting access to tobacco products based on birth year.

Tobacco Reporter highlighted the Maldives' efforts in global coverage of the initiative, noting three policy options under consideration:

President Dr Muizzu stated that the Government will carefully study each option and seek expert guidance before drafting legislation to submit to the People’s Majlis.

Despite its small population, the Maldives has one of the highest tobacco usage rates in the region. According to the World Health Organization, 26.6 percent of Maldivians aged 15 and older use tobacco products, including 43.6 percent of men.

Since President Dr Muizzu's administration began enforcing stricter anti-tobacco measures, Tobacco Reporter has closely followed the developments, with the outlet publishing nine articles on these control efforts over the last nine months.