Bangkok, March 22, 2025 – The Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau addressed growing public confusion over the legal status of e-cigarettes in Thailand, stating unequivocally that no law currently permits the arrest of individuals solely for using or smoking e-cigarettes. In a press briefing held earlier today, the senior official emphasized that law enforcement efforts remain squarely focused on targeting those who sell or distribute the devices, an activity explicitly banned under Thai regulations.
“There is no legal basis at this time to detain someone just for using an e-cigarette,” the Deputy Commissioner explained. “Our priority is to crack down on the illegal trade and distribution networks.” He cautioned police officers to exercise diligence, stressing that any action against individuals caught vaping must be supported by clear evidence of a verifiable offense. “Officers need to prove beyond doubt that a violation has occurred before making an arrest,” he added, urging restraint to avoid unnecessary harassment of the public amid claims of some users allegedly being extorted for money, including tourists.
While vaping has gained popularity among some segments of the population, including tourists, the sale, import, and possession of e-cigarettes and related products have been illegal since 2014 under a Ministry of Commerce order. Violators of the ban on selling or importing e-cigarettes can face steep fines or imprisonment, but the law has remained ambiguous about personal use, leading to inconsistent enforcement.
Public health advocates have long pushed for stricter regulations, citing concerns over the accessibility of e-cigarettes to minors and their potential to hurt Thailand’s tourism reputation.
