The Maldives has taken a groundbreaking step in public health by implementing a nationwide ban on tobacco use for individuals born on or after January 1, 2007. This makes the archipelago the first country in the world to enforce a generational tobacco prohibition. The health ministry announced the new law on Saturday, making it illegal for younger generations to purchase, sell, or use tobacco products. The ban underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding youth from the detrimental effects of tobacco, aligning with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Ahmed Afaal, vice chair of the Maldives’ tobacco control board, highlighted that the country’s prior ban on vaping in 2023 was a crucial precursor to this measure, aimed at curbing the tobacco industry’s tactics of targeting younger demographics. The new regulation extends to all forms of tobacco, with retailers mandated to verify buyers’ ages. Tourists visiting the Maldives must also comply with the law, though officials assert that the ban will not deter tourism, as visitors are drawn to the islands’ natural beauty rather than smoking opportunities. Despite similar efforts being abandoned in New Zealand and still under deliberation in the UK, the Maldives remains steadfast in its pursuit of a tobacco-free future. The country projects over 2 million tourist arrivals in the coming year, signaling confidence in the policy’s compatibility with its thriving tourism industry.