Thailand’s Special Parliamentary Committee, tasked with addressing the proliferation of e-cigarettes, has put forth three distinct policy proposals aimed at regulating these controversial products. Led by Mr. Niyom Wierathandithakul, Phrae MP of the Party for Thailand, the committee comprises 35 members representing various governmental bodies, civil organizations, and experts in the field.
The committee’s proposals include continuing the existing ban on e-cigarettes while tightening enforcement measures, regulating heated tobacco products (HTPs) alongside the ban on e-cigarettes, or implementing regulations for both e-cigarettes and HTPs. These measures are tailored to combat the widespread use of e-cigarettes in Thailand, despite their current illegality. Dr. Human Leethiraprasert, the committee’s secretary and head of the sub-committee on e-cigarette regulation, emphasized the need to safeguard public health and protect youth from accessing these products. He highlighted deficiencies in current legislation and proposed amendments to explicitly define terms related to e-cigarettes and HTPs. These amendments would enable stricter enforcement and potentially include these products under controlled goods categories.
The committee’s deliberations will culminate in a report presented to the House of Representatives, which will determine the next steps, whether through executive action or legislative amendments. The committee’s inclusive approach, incorporating perspectives from both government and opposition members, underscores its commitment to addressing Thailand’s unique socio-economic and health challenges posed by e-cigarettes.
