To deter the proliferation of e-cigarette sales, particularly among teenagers, the Customs Department has announced stringent penalties for importers. According to spokesman Panthong Loykulnan, importers of e-cigarettes, barakus, shishas, and e-barakus will now face fines equal to double the item’s value, customs tax, and VAT.
These penalties align with those imposed on goods subject to import restrictions, such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and items infringing copyright laws, including garlic, onions, and shallots.
Mr. Panthong emphasized the urgency of this measure in response to the rapid adoption of e-cigarettes among young people and students. Recent incidents in Si Sa Ket and Rayong underscore the seriousness of the issue.
In Si Sa Ket, authorities, led by Muang Si Sa Ket district chief Kom Sangwong, raided a shop called Monkey Tattoo following reports of illicit e-cigarette sales. The operation resulted in the confiscation of 4,300 pieces of e-cigarette equipment and 8,595 baht in cash. Two shop workers, identified as Jakkririt, 27, and Arthikom, 35, were arrested for unauthorized e-cigarette sales and possession of contraband cigarettes. They face fines totaling quadruple the value of seized items, approximately two million baht.
Similarly, in Rayong’s Muang district, authorities apprehended two suspects, Watcharin Sicharoenpramong, 31, and Natchayanon Wongnoen, 22, for allegedly selling e-cigarettes and e-barakus. Seized equipment and a list of orders further substantiated the case.
