The Ministry of Health has stated that under the regulations to be made under the "Tobacco Control Act," tobacco business can only be conducted with a special license.

The Health Ministry said today that the amendment to the "Tobacco Control Act" has come into effect from the 15th of this month.

According to the amendment, any party importing, exporting, and selling tobacco products in bulk or individually in the Maldives must have a valid license issued by the Ministry of Health in addition to a business permit.

"However, the requirement to obtain the aforementioned permits becomes mandatory within the period specified in the regulations that set out the principles and procedures for granting these permits, as stated in this law, once these regulations are published," the Health Ministry said.

According to the amendment to the "Tobacco Control Act," regulations for issuing licenses must be made within 60 days of the law coming into effect.