Thailand calls for strict e-cigarette law amid rising seizures

Thailand’s Deputy Public Health Minister called for the creation of a distinct law aimed at restricting the use and sale of e-cigarettes, citing the ineffectiveness of current regulations.

During a discussion at the National Health Commission Office yesterday, Health Minister Thanakrit Jitareerat highlighted the absence of a specific law addressing e-cigarettes. While the Public Health Ministry has established a task force to examine the issue, he noted that various agencies independently enforce measures based on different laws.

“The measures we have rolled out to date have proved ineffective, so a specific law on the matter must be drafted as soon as possible, describing vaping as a serious threat to society.”

He criticised government officials who continue to vape despite the e-cigarette ban, attributing them as a factor hindering the crackdown’s progress.

National Health Commission Office (NHCO) chairman, Banjerd Singkaneti, argued that the prime minister should prioritise refining existing laws to provide clearer guidelines for authorities.

“In the long run, possession of e-cigarettes should be clearly prohibited by law so that the police will have no excuse not to pursue legal action,” Banjerd said.

He also suggested that government officials be held accountable if e-cigarette sales are found in areas under their jurisdiction.

The Office of the Consumer Protection Board reported a significant increase in the number of e-cigarettes seized, rising from 27,000 in 2020 to 100,000 last year, reported Bangkok Post.

In related news, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is considering inviting US Ambassador Robert F. Godec to observe anti-drug operations in the northern region of Thailand.

During a recent discussion, the 62 year old Thai premier highlighted an increase in the distribution of methamphetamine pills and heroin in the area. The visit aims to showcase the progress made in collaboration with the US anti-narcotics agency and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board.