The public poll on a proposed generational smoking ban in the Maldives, launched by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, has officially concluded today, 8 April 2025.

Conducted via X, the initiative sought public input on the most appropriate age group at which to implement the proposed smoking ban. President Dr Muizzu had previously indicated that the Government was committed to introducing such a measure, emphasising its significance as a proactive step towards safeguarding the health of young Maldivians. The poll commenced on 3 April 2025 and was open for five days.

Participants were invited to choose from three proposed age thresholds:

More than 5,500 individuals participated in the poll. A majority—51.1 per cent—supported banning tobacco use for those born on or after 1 January 2000. Meanwhile, 40.8 per cent backed the option for individuals born on or after 1 January 2007, and 8.2 per cent voted in favour of the 1 January 2004 threshold.

President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed the Government’s determination to tackle tobacco use in the country. He cited the earlier national ban on vaping as a step in this direction and underscored the Administration’s ongoing efforts to reduce smoking prevalence among the population.

The President stated  that it is the Government’s responsibility to prevent young people—particularly minors—from becoming vulnerable to harmful habits such as smoking. He also called on tobacco traders to consider withdrawing from the sector in support of the nation's public health objectives.

Moving forward, the Government is expected to analyse the poll results in consultation with Maldivian health experts before sending the proposal to Parliament for consideration. A formal decision on the implementation of the generational smoking ban will be guided by both expert recommendations and the views expressed by the public.