Thai Research describes e-cigarettes as a “first gateway” for ages 15–20, linked to appearance and flavors

Key Takeaways

• Date and venue: Jan. 12, 2026, Room 201, ThaiHealth Learning Center

• Key figures: Minister Santi Piyatat; opening chaired by his secretary Dr. Porapat Rodphothong Boonthanom

• Study scope: six regions of Thailand; spending and behavior related to cigarettes and e-cigarettes

• Findings: cigarettes down, e-cigarettes up, especially among youth and women; “first gateway” for ages 15–20

• Data points: 76.4% never calculated total spending losses; “present bias” and “over 70% never calculated spending” also cited

• Policy directions: behavioral-economics “nudges,” online market control, and tax measures

2Firsts, January 13, 2026 – According to Share2Trade, a seminar titled “A study of spending on cigarettes and e-cigarettes and the behavior of different smoker groups in Thailand using an economic model” was held on Jan. 12 at Room 201 of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) Learning Center. The report links the event to efforts led by Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Santi Piyatat, with the opening chaired by his secretary Dr. Porapat Rodphothong Boonthanom.

The seminar covered all six regions of Thailand and focused on health and economic impacts linked to cigarette and e-cigarette use. ThaiHealth deputy manager Dr. Pairot Saonualm and researchers from Thammasat University’s Faculty of Economics presented findings.

Porapat said the government is treating tobacco control as a serious issue, particularly as e-cigarettes spread rapidly among youth and women. The study described e-cigarettes as a “first gateway” for ages 15–20, linked to appearance and flavors, and said “thinking traps” lead users to wrongly believe e-cigarettes are not dangerous. The report cited that 76.4% never calculated total spending losses from smoking and referenced “present bias,” prioritizing short-term pleasure over health and future savings. It also referenced that more than 70% had never calculated smoking-related spending.

Policy directions raised at the seminar included using behavioral-economics “nudge” design to help smokers recognize health and cost harms, alongside proposals on online market controls and tax measures, aimed at strengthening public health policy and moving toward a vape-free Thai society.

Image source: Share2Trade