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.
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