According to TPN, on December 11th, the Thai parliamentary committee will evaluate the issue of the legal sale of e-cigarettes in the country on December 12th. However, this action has faced strong opposition from civic groups, youth networks, and foundations, with a petition against legalization garnering nearly 600,000 signatures.
Thai education expert Sompong criticized the credibility of the committee, pointing out that the inclusion of representatives from the private sector related to the e-cigarette industry may lead to biased conclusions. He specifically highlighted aggressive marketing tactics targeting children under 8, which present e-cigarettes as fashionable and easily accessible products, especially through online platforms.
According to him, the number of young e-cigarette users has grown 2 to 3 times from 2015 to 2022. TPN media points out that this growth occurred during a period of complete e-cigarette ban. Supporters of legalization believe this indicates the failure of a total ban, and that reasonable regulation may be a better choice.
Supporters of legalization believe that this could increase tax revenue by regulating the current underground market. However, Cheddar Sompeng cites a study that claims the cost of treating e-cigarette-related illnesses is reportedly three times the tax revenue. He urges lawmakers not to focus solely on economic interests, but to carefully weigh all perspectives, emphasizing that if the decision to support legalization is made, it could cause long-term harm to public health and social integrity.
In addition, 14 medical associations unanimously oppose the legalization of e-cigarettes.
We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.
Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn
Notice
1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.
2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.
4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.
Copyright
This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.
For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.
We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com
