Thai Health Authorities: Nicotine Pouches Classified as Tobacco; Sales Must Comply with 2017 Act

Feb.02
Thailand’s Disease Control Department has warned that nicotine pouches (“Snus”) are classified as tobacco products and must comply with the Tobacco Products Control Act B.E. 2560 (2017). Officials said they have received complaints about sales and promotional activities, and stressed that these products must not be displayed or promoted at points of sale.

Key Points

 

  • Nicotine pouches (“Snus”) are classified as tobacco products in Thailand
  • Authorities cite complaints over sales and promotional activities
  • Point-of-sale display/promotion is prohibited, including prominent placement
  • Any communication that constitutes sales promotion may be unlawful
  • Free gifts and exchanges for other goods are also prohibited

 


 

2Firsts, FEB. 2, 2026

 

According to Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health Disease Control Department, nicotine pouches—commonly known as “Snus”—are classified as tobacco products, meaning their sale and promotion must strictly comply with applicable laws.

 

Deputy Director General Dr Suthat Chottanapund said the department has received complaints concerning the sale and promotional activities involving these products. He added that such conduct may violate multiple laws, particularly the Tobacco Products Control Act B.E. 2560 (2017).

 

Because nicotine pouches are treated as tobacco products, Dr Suthat said they are strictly prohibited from being displayed or promoted at points of sale. Any product display, prominent placement, or communication that constitutes sales promotion would be considered a violation. Offering the products as free gifts or exchanging them for other goods is also illegal.

 

Dr Chayanan Sittibusaya, Acting Senior Medical Expert and Director of the Office of the Tobacco Products Control Committee, said businesses must store these products out of sight, in the same manner as cigarettes and roll-your-own tobacco.

 

He emphasized that even if the products have been lawfully taxed, sales or promotional activities that do not comply with the Act remain illegal and could result in prosecution.

Image source: Thai PBS

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