The AD hoc Committee in charge of studying vape legislation in Thailand has proposed three policy options: maintaining the ban on vapes. Legalizing and regulating only heated tobacco products (HTPs). Fully legalizing and regulating vapes and HTPs. Of the 35 members, 26 supported the latter two options, favoring an end to the ban and appropriate regulation.
Key points:
1. The AD hoc Committee in charge of studying vape legislation in Thailand proposed three policy options, with the majority of members supporting the legalization and regulation of vapes and heated tobacco products.
2. The number of vape users in Thailand has soared, and the expansion of the illegal market has brought health risks. The current ban is ineffective and legislation is needed.
3. The report will be submitted to the Cabinet for consideration and is expected to become a turning point in Thailand’s vape policy.
E-cigarettes may be legalized in Thailand?
According to The Pattayanews reported on March 24. Sarit Sitthiserichon, a representative of Thai vape users, thanked the lower house of the Thai Parliament for taking an important attitude to study Thailand’s vape regulations. The AD Hoc Committee tasked with studying vape legislation and regulatory measures proposed three policy options, with a majority of members supporting the legalization and appropriate regulation of vapes and heated tobacco products (HTPs).
The commission’s report reportedly proposes three policy options,
- Maintaining the current ban on vapes;
- Legalization and regulation of heated tobacco products only;
- Legalization and regulation of vapes and heated tobacco products.
Majority of Ad Hoc Committee members support regulatory program
Of the 35 committee members, 26 supported the second and third options, preferring to end the ban and move to appropriate legal regulation.
Sarit added that Thailand is moving in the right direction like other countries that previously banned vapes but eventually adopted regulatory measures.
- “The report is seen as a key step in addressing the issue of vapes in Thailand, especially youth use. Although Thailand has maintained a ban on vapes for more than a decade, the practice has not been effective in reducing usage. The number of vape users has increased tenfold in just two years. In addition, the rapid expansion of the illegal vape market, which lacks quality control and is difficult for government regulation, poses health risks to users. These problems highlight the ineffectiveness of the ban. Appropriate legislation should be in place to ensure responsible regulation, as is in place in more than 80 countries around the world, rather than a blanket ban or uncontrolled free market.”
He also pointed out that during the commission’s study, both supporters and opponents of legalizing vapes had an equal opportunity to express their views on health, economic and social aspects. After a comprehensive assessment of all factors, 26 of the 35 commission members supported the second and third approaches, full legalization and regulation.
