It was reported on 17 February 2022 that the Cabinet in Thailand has approved a five-year road map to reduce the level of tobacco consumption and improve overall public health by strategies that combine regulation, information and revised tobacco taxes. The plan is to commence in 2022 and continue until 2027.
Regulation
The various state agencies will have greater powers to control the consumption of tobacco by means of stronger rules and regulations. The plan would also entail a ban on smoking in public places and workplaces.
Education
There would be public information to educate people on the marketing strategies used by tobacco companies. Current laws would also amended to require full disclosure of the contents of cigarette products. Community networks would be set up to assist smokers attempting to give up smoking.
Taxation
There will be a reform of taxes on tobacco, and the ways in which tax is collected in relation to tobacco products will be changed. Measures will also be taken to reduce illegal sales of cigarettes.
