India, Nov. 8 -- In a historic move, the Maldives became the first country in the world to ban smoking for anyone born on or after January 1, 2007. The move, by the country's Health Ministry, is aimed at creating a smoke-free nation and focusing on protecting public health. It's noteworthy that approximately a year ago, the country had criminalised the purchasing, selling, use, or possession of vapes and e-cigarettes.

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Key details of the Maldives' smoking ban

Effective from November 1, 2025, no one born on or after January 1, 2007, will be allowed to smoke or purchase cigarettes in the country. The rule applies to tourists who fall in the same age bracket as well. The ban a...