Thailand’s Tourism Authority reminds visitors of current anti-smoking laws

Thailand’s government is reminding tourists of the nation’s current anti-smoking laws. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) says travellers should be aware that electronic cigarettes, shishas, and electronic shishas are currently illegal.

Furthermore, the TAT says there is no smoking in public areas as part of the broader Tobacco Control Law which aims to promote a clean, safe and smoke-free environment.

The reminder comes after recent incidents have seen foreign travellers facing fines or arrest after using such devices as electronic cigarettes while being unaware of their illegality.

According to the Phuket Express, electronic cigarettes and shishas were banned back in 2014 for health reasons as well as their potential to encourage young people to take up the bad habit.

Travellers entering Thailand are advised not to bring any electronic cigarettes or electronic shishas or any equipment associated with them. This includes the e-cig juice that comes in many flavours.

Tour operators and travel agents are also being reminded to make sure their clients are aware of the ban placed on such devices.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is reportedly working closely with tour companies and guides to ensure tourists are not smoking in prohibited areas.

Such public areas where smoking is prohibited include sports complexes, all tourist attractions, and airports.

Outdoor areas where smoking is prohibited include exercise or sports training facilities, competitions of any kind, sporting venues, public zoos, parks, amusement parks, markets, and children’s playgrounds.

In 2005, Thailand joined the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and has been one of the world’s forerunners in banning smoking in almost all indoor public places, public transport, and indoor workplaces.

In 2017, smoking rooms in six of Thailand’s airports were closed as part of the same year’s Tobacco Control Act. That same year, the government banned smoking on Thai beaches nationwide as part of its sustainable tourism efforts.

In 2018, all public areas of airports officially banned smoking. Those who fail to abide by the law may face a fine of up to 5,000 baht.

However, some airports and other public transportation terminals do have designated smoking areas, which the TAT allows.