If you’re heading over to Thailand anytime soon, you might want to read this as a heads up!
Many travellers are probably aware by now that people have been banned from smoking cigarettes on a number of beaches in Thailand. If caught breaking this newly implemented law, perpetrators can face a fine of up to THB100,000 (approx. RM12,700) or up to a year in prison.
Source: The Guardian
Since then, many tourists have remained cautious and adhered to this cigarette ban. However, most travellers are probably unaware of this other law that could land them in even more trouble!
If you think the sentence for cigarettes was bad, people can also face up to 10 years in prison for smoking e-cigarettes or vapes. This ban was reportedly in effect since 2014. An excerpt from the “Local Laws and Customs” section on Thailand’s Foreign Office website reads,
“You can’t bring vaporisers (like e-cigarettes and e-baraku) or refills into Thailand. These items are likely to be confiscated and you could be fined or sent to prison for up to 10 years if convicted.”
Source: Vapor Voice
“The sale or supply of e-cigarettes and similar devices is also banned and you could face a heavy fine or up to 5 years imprisonment if found guilty.”
According to News.com.au, despite the fact that vaping is quite a common sight in Thailand, vapes are actually prohibited items and you could risk a lot by doing it. Recently, a travel agent from the United Kingdom shared her nephew’s experience in Thailand. She stated that he was arrested and fined £125 (approx. RM690) after getting caught vaping and was even threatened with jail time. Yikes!
So, remember to read up on their latest laws and customs before heading over to Thailand just to make sure you’re not accidentally breaking any laws there. To be on the safe side, it’s best not to bring your vape over to Thailand in case it gets confiscated at customs. Safe travels, y’all!
Also read: Thailand Introduces Smoking Ban on 20 Beaches and RM12,000 Fine if Law is Broken
