Vaping in Thailand? Tourists & Users Now Face Up to 5 Years Prison Risk

Possession Treated as Smuggling Offence Under Stricter Enforcement

Thailand is significantly escalating its enforcement against electronic cigarettes, with authorities now warning that simple possession of a vape device can be treated as a serious offence related to handling smuggled goods. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukul Prueksa-anurak stated that users, including tourists, caught with vapes could be prosecuted for receiving or possessing contraband.

Under Thailand’s Customs Act, this offence carries severe penalties: imprisonment for up to 5 years or a fine equivalent to four times the value of the seized products plus applicable duties, or potentially both. This marks a tougher approach compared to previous enforcement, which often resulted primarily in fines for tourists despite a long-standing ban.

• Read more: Bringing Vapes to Thailand: A Tourist’s Guide

E-cigarettes have been illegal to import, export, sell, and possess in Thailand since 2014, with existing laws carrying potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison or substantial fines (reports vary, citing figures up to 100,000 baht). However, authorities are concerned about the products’ continued open sale, even near schools, and alarming increases in youth vaping rates. The proportion of e-cigarette users aged 15-29 reportedly doubled between 2019 and 2024. Recent hospitalizations linked to vaping-related lung injuries have further fueled the government’s determination.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has spearheaded efforts against online sales, reportedly reducing them significantly. The government’s comprehensive strategy now clearly targets users’ possession under customs law, alongside ongoing efforts against illegal trade, demonstrating a zero-tolerance policy towards vaping.

• News source: Thái Lan mạnh tay trấn áp thuốc lá điện tử

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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