Kuala Lumpur, 7th August 2024 (Wednesday) – The recent call by Thailand’s Deputy Public Health Minister, Thanakrit Jitareerat, for a targeted law on vaping highlights a concerning approach to public health policy. Consumer Choice Center believes it is essential to address the arguments presented and provide a perspective rooted in evidence-based policy.

Firstly, the notion that existing measures have been ineffective due to the lack of a specific law overlooks the core issues at hand. The spread of vaping cannot simply be curtailed through prohibition and stringent regulations. Evidence from countries that have adopted harm reduction strategies, such as the United Kingdom and New Zealand, shows that providing regulated access to vaping products can significantly reduce smoking rates and improve public health outcomes. These countries have seen a decline in smoking prevalence as they embrace vaping as a safer alternative to combustible tobacco.

“The argument that vaping is a ‘serious threat to society’ lacks a balanced view of the available scientific evidence. While it is crucial to regulate the industry to ensure product safety and prevent youth access, it is equally important to recognize that vaping is a significantly less harmful alternative for adult smokers seeking to quit,” said Tarmizi Anuwar, Malaysia Country Associate at the Consumer Choice Center. 

“Studies, including those by Public Health England, have consistently found that e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful than traditional cigarettes. Ignoring this evidence in favor of blanket prohibitions only serves to drive the market underground, leading to unregulated and potentially more dangerous products.”

Chairman Banjerd Singkaneti’s suggestion to refine existing laws to provide clearer guidelines for authorities is a step in the right direction. However, this should not lead to a draconian approach where possession of e-cigarettes is criminalized.

Instead, Thailand should focus on creating a regulatory framework that balances public health interests with consumer choice. This includes setting quality standards for vaping products, restricting sales to minors, and providing accurate information to the public about the relative risks of vaping versus smoking.

The increase in seizures of illegal e-cigarettes, from 27,000 in 2020 to 100,000 in 2023, indicates a growing demand that is not being met by current policies. This rise in illegal activity suggests that prohibition is not the answer.

 “The increase in seizures of illegal e-cigarettes clearly shows that there is a significant demand that is being driven underground by current policies,” stated Tarmizi Anuwar. 

“Thailand should consider the success of other countries that have integrated vaping into their tobacco control strategies, resulting in reduced smoking rates and improved public health outcomes.”

The call for a targeted vape law in Thailand is misguided and ignores the substantial body of evidence supporting harm reduction. Rather than enacting prohibitive measures, Thailand should adopt a regulatory framework that ensures product safety, prevents youth access, and supports adult smokers in making healthier choices. The Consumer Choice Center stands ready to support Thailand in crafting policies that are informed by evidence and promote public health without compromising consumer choice.