President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has ratified amendments to the Maldives Export-Import Act, reducing the import duty on cigarettes and bidis from MVR 8 to MVR 4 per stick.

The bill, submitted on behalf of the government by Komandoo MP Mohamed Ibrahim, was passed by Parliament on Wednesday.

The amendments also reduce the ad valorem duty on cigarettes and bidis from 50 per cent to 30 per cent. In addition, nicotine replacement products, including nicotine chewing gum and patches designed to help people quit smoking, will be exempt from import duty.

The amended law takes effect following the President's ratification. Regulations required to implement the changes must be revised and published within 30 days.