Maldives' generational ban on smoking goes into effect

Maldives introduced a landmark generational tobacco ban on Saturday, making it the only country with such a policy, the Health Ministry said. Anyone born on or after January 1, 2007 is barred from buying, using, or being sold any tobacco, and retailers must check ages; selling to an underage person carries a 50,000 rufiyaa fine. Tourists are also covered. The rules extend to electronic cigarettes and vapes for all ages, prohibiting import, sale, distribution, possession, and use, with a 5,000 rufiyaa penalty. Backed earlier this year by President Mohamed Muizzu, officials say the move aims to protect public health.