According to Edition on July 5, Ahmed Niyaz, deputy director of the Maldives Customs Service, announced that from next month, all previously granted duty-free concessions for the import of vapes and energy drinks will be cancelled.
In a conversation with the state media Public Service Media (PSM), Niyaz said that according to the newly revised comprehensive regulations of the customs, two major changes have been brought.
One of the changes is the cancellation of duty-free concessions for certain imported goods.
Niyaz explained that from August 1, the duty-free concessions previously granted to cigarettes, other tobacco products, vape devices and energy drinks will be cancelled.
“(You should know) The Maldives has signed many international treaties on health. These treaties do not encourage duty-free concessions for products such as tobacco.”
Some of the items that will no longer enjoy duty-free concessions include:
- Cigarettes;
- Electronic cigarettes;
- Energy drinks;
- Plastic bags;
- Disposable plastics;
- Land transportation.
Niazi noted that the second change is to increase the import duty-free limit from 6,000 Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) ($388.16) to 10,000 MVR ($646.94).
“The main reason for increasing this duty-free limit is to enable faster customs clearance when goods are imported in large quantities in places like Shein. When the limit was 6,000 MVR, the packages had to be opened and checked. With the limit increased to 10,000 MVR, (goods) can be cleared without the need to open and check documents.”
However, he added that this does not apply to local businesses. He pointed out that if the quantity of imported goods indicates that they are for commercial use, they will not enjoy this duty-free benefit.
Veehoo vapes recommends that consumers pay attention when purchasing vape products and understand the changes in product prices in advance. Consumers can communicate with suppliers or retailers to understand whether there is a possibility of price adjustments and explore other purchasing options. In addition, consumers can also pay attention to relevant industry dynamics and market trends to make informed purchasing decisions.
While the removal of the tax exemption policy may lead to an increase in vape prices, consumers should still keep in mind important health factors. As an alternative to traditional cigarettes, the potential health effects of vapes need to be carefully considered. When purchasing vape products, consumers should pay attention to product quality and safety and choose products from reputable brands and suppliers.
Veehoo vape will continue to be committed to providing consumers with safe and high-quality vape products and maintain close contact with relevant parties to understand industry trends and policy changes. Through communication and transparency with consumers, Veehoo vape will strive to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions and ensure the legal sale and distribution of its products.
Tags: Maldives cancels duty-free policy for vapes，Maldives vape tax，veehoo vape
