President passes to create Tobacco Cessation Clinics in all islands and cities across the nation

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, on advisement of the Cabinet, has passed to create Tobacco Cessation Clinics in all islands and cities across the nation.

The decision was arrived at the Cabinet sitting held Sunday, after deliberating on a paper submitted by Ministry of Health.

Following the decision, the President has also authorised the provision of all necessary medications for individuals seeking to quit tobacco use, available through STO at all city and atoll hospitals.

Additionally, cessation services are to be classified as preventative health care services.

Under the Administration’s master plan on tobacco cessation, the President had already introduced several reforms. As such, changes have been brought to the Tobacco Control Act and Export Import Act, which has resulted in increased levies on cigarettes and electronic smoking devices, as well as consumption. These amendments were introduced with the aim of bringing a lasting solution to tobacco consumption within a four-year period.