Thailand’s Special Parliamentary Committee has unveiled three strategic proposals to address the pervasive issue of e-cigarettes in the country. Led by Mr. Niyom Wierathandithakul, Phrae MP of the Party for Thailand, the committee comprises 35 members representing a cross-section of government agencies, civil organizations, and industry experts.
The committee’s recommendations include maintaining the current ban on e-cigarettes while enhancing enforcement measures, regulating heated tobacco products (HTPs) alongside the existing ban, or instituting comprehensive regulations covering both categories. These measures aim to mitigate the widespread use of e-cigarettes despite their illegality in Thailand.Dr. Human Leethiraprasert, committee secretary and leader of the sub-committee on e-cigarette regulation, emphasized the importance of protecting public health and preventing underage access to these products. Proposed amendments seek to strengthen existing laws, clarify definitions, and enforce stringent controls on e-cigarette production, advertising, and distribution.
From the corporate perspective in Imphal, stakeholders are monitoring these developments closely, anticipating potential impacts on market dynamics and consumer behavior. The committee’s decisions will play a crucial role in shaping regulatory frameworks, balancing health concerns with economic considerations.
