Overview
- The rule took effect over the weekend, with the Health Ministry calling it a milestone in efforts to reduce smoking.
- The law bars the purchase, use, and sale of all tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2007, and requires retailers to verify age.
- President Mohamed Muizzu signed the measure as part of a broader policy labeled the Generational Prohibition.
- The government has opened a toll‑free quitline, is establishing specialized clinics, and staged a 24‑hour relay to promote healthy habits.
- Context from official data notes roughly 500 million cigarettes imported annually and health spending near 9.7% of GDP, while prior steps included e‑cigarette import curbs and higher cigarette tariffs; local media also report the minimum tobacco purchase age rose to 21.