Thailand’s Public Health Minister, Somchai Tepsutin, has announced a significant crackdown on illegal e-cigarette sales, resulting in the closure of 309 online sales accounts. This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat the growing problem of e-cigarette use in the country.
To lead this effort, Minister Tepsutin has approved the appointment of Chanchao Chaiyanukij, a former Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice. Chaiyanukij will head a joint task force comprising various agencies to enhance measures against e-cigarette use.
The crackdown includes stringent bans on carrying and smoking e-cigarettes at government premises and airports. Enhanced coordination with cyber police has been instrumental in identifying and shutting down the online sales accounts.
On July 17, Public Health Minister Susak announced the formation of a working group under Chaiyanukij’s chairmanship. This group, including experts and representatives from the Office of Consumer Protection, aims to develop and implement policies to combat e-cigarettes more effectively.
E-cigarettes are illegal in Thailand. The laws prohibit their purchase, importation, possession, and sale. Violators face severe penalties under at least four laws, including the Customs Act and the Import and Export Act of 2017, which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
“Although e-cigarettes are clearly illegal, public perception is biased, and the enforcement of existing laws is inadequate,” said Minister Tepsutin. The meeting concluded with a decision to strengthen cooperation with relevant departments to enforce strict bans on smoking in government premises, transport stations, and schools. Additionally, coordination with cyber police will continue to target online sales.
Minister Tepsutin also mentioned the need for agencies empowered to enforce the law to prepare a memorandum of cooperation or set up a joint working group to facilitate enforcement. The cyber police headquarters will play a crucial role in combating e-cigarette advertisements and online sales.
A monitoring system has detected 309 online sales accounts across 23 provinces and cities, which will be shut down as part of this effort.
