Medical Students Petition Against E-Cigarette Legalization in Thailand
Students from 29 institutions have formally requested that Thailand maintain its current ban on the import and sale of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
On October 22, 2026, representatives from 29 medical institutions submitted a petition to the House Public Health Committee, urging the government to uphold existing prohibitions on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products (HTPs). The group expressed significant concern regarding the health impact on youth, citing reports that some children in Thailand have begun vaping as early as age seven.
Sakoltee Phattiyakul, a Democrat Party MP and chairman of the committee, received the petition amid ongoing discussions regarding potential policy shifts. The students argue that easing these restrictions could exacerbate public health risks, particularly among younger demographics.
For residents and travelers, this development highlights that Thailand’s strict stance on vaping remains a subject of intense legislative debate. While the current ban on the import, sale, and possession of e-cigarettes remains in effect, the situation is subject to ongoing parliamentary review. Travelers should be aware that the legal status of these devices is currently unchanged, and enforcement of existing tobacco control laws remains active. It remains to be confirmed whether the committee will incorporate these student concerns into future policy recommendations or if the government will move toward a regulatory framework for these products. Visitors are advised to adhere to current local laws to avoid potential legal complications.
