Maldives Customs Service has seized over 73,000 vape-related items since amendments to the Tobacco Act came into force banning the sale, use, and import of electronic cigarettes and related products.

Speaking at a press conference held under the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, Customs Commissioner General Fathimath Dhiyana said the seizures were made following the implementation of the amended law on 15 November, 2024.

According to the Commissioner General, Customs has confiscated approximately 73,000 vape items across 185 cases since the ban was imposed. She also revealed that cigarettes valued at more than MVR 24 million were seized in separate attempts to smuggle tobacco products into the Maldives.

Commissioner Dhiyana said enforcement efforts have been intensified following the legal amendments, which prohibit the sale, use, and import of vapes and vape-related products. She outlined the penalties imposed under the law, noting that individuals found guilty of smuggling face a fine of MVR 50,000. A fine of MVR 10,000 is imposed for each electronic cigarette or vape imported, while the sale of vaping devices in the Maldives carries a fine of MVR 20,000, with an additional MVR 10,000 imposed per device sold. Distributing vape products free of charge is also subject to a fine of MVR 10,000.

Customs has also intercepted several large consignments since the ban came into effect. Commissioner Dhiyana said the largest seizure to date occurred during a special operation conducted on December 4, when officers acted on intelligence suggesting that a sea cargo shipment contained illegal goods. During the operation, a total of 10,800 vape cartridges valued at MVR 2.7 million were confiscated.

She said Customs will continue to strengthen enforcement measures to prevent the illegal import and distribution of prohibited tobacco and vape products, stressing that strict action will be taken against offenders.