BANGKOK, Thailand – The government has ramped up its crackdown on illegal e-cigarette distribution, with Prime Minister’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai reporting substantial progress. Under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s directive, authorities have strengthened border controls, targeted retailers, and launched public awareness campaigns to curb access, particularly among young people.
Between February 26 and March 18, 2025, law enforcement agencies initiated 1,741 cases related to e-cigarettes, exceeding the total recorded in 2024. More than 1.28 million e-cigarette products valued at 231 million baht ($6.5 million) were confiscated. A major operation in Nonthaburi province dismantled the country’s largest e-cigarette storage facility, seizing stock worth 130 million baht ($3.6 million).
The crackdown involves cooperation between the Customs Department, the Royal Thai Police, and other agencies to prevent smuggling and illegal sales. Both online and physical retailers have been targeted, while stricter monitoring in schools and universities aims to limit student access.
Government agencies are working toward a 30-day suppression target and are compiling findings for the prime minister, covering enforcement statistics, operational challenges, and long-term measures to limit e-cigarette distribution. (NNT)
