BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has summoned Minister Jiraphon Sinthuprai and National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet for a high-level meeting to address the crackdown on e-cigarettes. The government has set a firm 30-day deadline to take decisive action, with a strict prohibition on sales near educational institutions and a focus on tackling importers.
Following the meeting, the Prime Minister posted a statement emphasizing the urgency of combating e-cigarette sales, particularly among young people and in areas near schools. “The crackdown on e-cigarettes, especially in youth-dense areas and school zones, must be carried out rigorously with strict legal measures,” she stated.
During discussions with Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet and Minister Jiraphon, the Prime Minister assigned them the primary responsibility for overseeing the enforcement. The meeting focused on intensifying regulatory measures and cracking down on e-cigarettes, particularly to protect children and adolescents. “I urge all relevant agencies to enforce strict measures—there should be no sales near schools or educational institutions,” she added.
Additionally, she highlighted the need for public awareness campaigns to educate people on the legal and health consequences of e-cigarettes. The crackdown will begin by targeting importers, sealing off all distribution channels, and strictly prosecuting sellers. A 30-day timeline has been given to the Royal Thai Police, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Interior, and the Customs Department to carry out this stringent enforcement.
“Law enforcement is primarily the responsibility of the police, but ensuring the safety of children and young people is a collective duty of society,” the Prime Minister said. She called for public cooperation in monitoring sales to minors, urging people to report any violations to the authorities for legal action. (TNA)
