Parliament has unanimously approved a legislative measure reducing the import duty on cigarettes to USD 0.26, reversing a recent tax increase to align with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.
Introduced on behalf of the government by Mohamed Ibrahim, Parliamentarian for Komandoo constituency, the bill secured endorsement from all 68 attending members. The amendment formally halves the existing tariff of USD 0.52, extending the statutory reduction to hand rolled cigarettes and noncombustible heated tobacco products.
Officials acknowledge the reduction will diminish projected customs revenue within the national budget. To advance public health objectives, the legislation entirely eliminates import duties on smoking cessation aids, including nicotine patches and gum manufactured to assist individuals in transitioning away from tobacco.
The policy shift follows a November 2024 adjustment that elevated the levy on a single cigarette from USD 0.21 to USD 0.52. The government attributed the latest revision to guidance from the World Health Organisation.
These legislative adjustments arrive amid broader administrative efforts to curb tobacco use. Over the past two years, authorities have implemented a generational smoking ban and a complete prohibition on the importation and sale of vaping devices. A national tobacco control campaign launched on 27 June seeks to unite civil society and institutions through public awareness and expanded cessation services.
The law takes effect upon ratification by the president, mandating publication of revised procedural guidelines within thirty days.