A WHO rate, unseen studies and a U-turn: Maldives makes cigarettes cheaper
July 03, 2026 by maldivesindependent.com
A WHO rate, unseen studies and a U-turn: Maldives makes cigarettes cheaper
The Maldives’ decision to make cigarettes cheaper raises serious questions about the consistency of tobacco policy. If public health advice is shaped by opaque studies and international pressure while lower-risk alternatives remain restricted, smokers may be left with the most harmful option made more affordable. Reducing harm requires transparent evidence, proportionate regulation and policies that distinguish between combustible tobacco and safer nicotine products. Public health should not protect cigarettes by default.
28.80% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 120,000 current smokers in Maldives 43.30% of men are current smokers but only 3.20% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
