BANGKOK, Thailand – The government has issued a warning over the rising promotion of heated tobacco products (HTPs), citing serious health risks and strict legal penalties for their use, sale, and possession. On Saturday (Mar 22), Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak responded to growing marketing campaigns that portray HTPs as safer than traditional cigarettes, calling these claims false and misleading.
According to Anukool, heated tobacco products, which are electronic devices that heat rather than burn tobacco, have gained traction among younger users. Research indicates that the devices substantially increase the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. A joint study by South Korean and American institutions found that current users face a 68% higher risk of developing NCDs, with extended or frequent use pushing that risk even higher.
Thailand continues to struggle with high rates of NCDs, affecting over 14 million people and causing more than 300,000 deaths each year, many of them among those under 60. Health authorities warn that the growing popularity of HTPs could further strain the public health system.
HTPs remain illegal under Thai law. Selling or supplying them can result in up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 600,000 baht. Importing the products may carry penalties of up to ten years in jail and fines of five times the product’s value. Possession alone can lead to a five-year sentence, while using HTPs in smoke-free zones is punishable by a fine of up to 5,000 baht.
Authorities are urging the public, especially youth and parents, to stay alert to misleading promotions and avoid the use of HTPs. The government continues to enforce relevant laws and raise awareness about the health dangers linked to both traditional tobacco and newer smoking alternatives. (NNT)
