In an ambitious crusade against the digital underworld of e-cigarettes, the Digital Economy and Society Ministry (DES) has successfully cut off more than 9,500 online routes in the past year alone. This proactive stance is a testament to the government’s dedication to stubbing out not only the online sales of e-cigarettes but also the smoke screens of illegal importation and smuggling. Deputy government spokeswoman Sasikarn Wattanachan conveyed the government’s stern message: if you’re trying to sneak these electronic puffs into cyberspace, you better watch out!
From March 2024 up to the cusp of March 19, 2025, an outstanding total of 9,515 URL addresses met their digital demise. Among these casualties were 9,200 X accounts, each acting as a portal for vape enthusiasts, along with 235 websites, 28 Facebook accounts, 12 Instagram profiles, and 14 TikTok accounts. The grim reaper of online vapes also swung his scythe over 120 Facebook groups, leaving the once vibrant digital communities eerily quiet.
The Ministry, armed with cutting-edge social listening tools and data analytics, actively scours the net with the tenacity of a digital detective. Unbeknownst to hapless sellers, 285 telltale posts whispered about e-cigarettes, alongside 93 posts from eager buyers. It’s a cat-and-mouse game where the mice need to tread lightly, lest they be caught in the trap of law enforced by the resolute Ms. Sasikarn and her digital cadre.
Highlighting the severity of contraventions, the Consumer Protection Act is not just a piece of cumbersome legislation but a formidable bulwark against vape-based malefactors. Sellers of e-cigarettes and their paraphernalia are looking at a potential three-year sabbatical behind bars, or a hefty fine tickling the upper boundaries of 600,000 baht, or heaven forbid, both penalties combined. On the import front, the repercussions are monumental — an importer risks a decade-long stay in the penitentiary and a cataclysmic fine of fivefold the cost of the goods they dare to trade.
Equally, the buyers aren’t given a free pass either, with prospects of at least five years of jail time and fines fourfold of their enthusiastic purchases, the jailbirds here aren’t singing any pleasant tunes.
With a rallying call, Ms. Sasikarn implores the populace to contribute to this vigilant effort. Anyone spotting illicit sales or smuggling operations is encouraged to dial the DES hotline at 1212 or alert law enforcement agencies. The message is clear — when it comes to curbing the vape tide, your call could very well be the one that makes the difference!
I think it’s ridiculous to ban e-cigarettes online. It’s like trying to ban books because some people don’t like them.
But Tommy, don’t you think there’s a public health aspect here? Vaping has been linked to various health issues.
But Grace, isn’t it better to regulate rather than enforce bans? Banning doesn’t solve the problem; it just pushes it underground.
I support this crackdown! My cousin got severely addicted to vaping. It’s about time something is being done.
I can understand your concern, Sarah. But don’t people have the right to decide for themselves?
That’s true JD, but what about the teenagers getting hooked without knowing the risks? There needs to be some control.
I find it fascinating how the government thinks banning digital sales will curb usage. Ironically, it probably just made e-cigarettes cooler.
Cracking down on e-cigarettes seems like overreach. What about freedom of choice?
Banning e-cigarettes seems harsh, but considering environmental impacts, less plastic waste is generated if usage is reduced.
Will this ban actually be effective, or just push people to illegal markets?
Probably the latter. Remember the prohibition days? People will find a way if they want something badly enough.
This ban sets a dangerous precedent for digital surveillance. Are we comfortable with the government constantly watching?
Exactly, Patricia! Today it’s vaping, tomorrow what? This kind of policing can lead to privacy invasions.
I think the fines and jail time are too extreme. That’s a disproportionate response compared to other substances.
Chris, maybe the government believes in making an example to deter others.
Yeah, but Alice, isn’t it better to educate rather than punish harshly?
I agree with Steven. The focus should be on education rather than fear-based tactics.
If it’s illegal to sell them, why are they still made? What’s the point if nobody can really buy or sell them?
Honestly, this is all smoke and mirrors… pun intended. People will still vape. It’s all about the market response.
Interesting… Governments target small things but miss the bigger issues like pollution and corporate carbon footprints.
I’m all for healthy living, but are vapes really the enemy? What about cigarettes then?
Right? Cigarettes are still sold despite all the warnings. Hypocrisy much?
Exactly, Urban! Priorities seem skewed, doesn’t it?
What will they do next? Ban all internet? It’s crazy how invasive bans can be.
I didn’t realize e-cigarettes were such a big issue in Thailand. Seeing how strict the laws are, wow!
I think it’s good they are cracking down. At least someone is taking a stand against the smoking epidemic.
Jim, but vaping isn’t smoking traditional cigarettes. Aren’t they supposed to be less harmful?
That might be true, jellybean, but it’s still an addiction they’re trying to curb. A stand has to begin somewhere.
Legislation like this always shows how disconnected governments can be from the real world issues!
Indeed! Dealing with consequences without understanding the grassroots problems isn’t effective.