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Dear friends and travel lovers! If you are planning a vacation on sunny Phuket, we have important information for you. This is especially relevant for those who use electronic cigarettes. We know these devices are very popular in Russia. Let’s figure out why this topic is so important and what you need to know to avoid unpleasant surprises during your holiday.
Why Is This Important?
Thailand is a country with a rich culture and unique, sometimes surprising laws. One of these laws concerns electronic cigarettes. And guess what? These devices are strictly prohibited! Yes, you heard that right. Before packing your bags, let’s go through the details.
Thailand’s Legislation
The ban on electronic cigarettes was introduced in Thailand back in 2014. All types of electronic smoking devices are prohibited, including vapes, e-cigarettes, heated tobacco systems (such as IQOS), and liquids for these devices.
What exactly is prohibited:
✔️ Importing electronic cigarettes and vapes into Thailand.
✔️ Using these devices in the country.
✔️ Selling or distributing e-cigarettes and their liquids.
✔️ Simply possessing such devices.
✔️ The reasons for the ban are varied, from public health concerns to combating smuggling.
Penalties: When Your Vacation Might Go Wrong
Now for the most important part. Violating the ban can result in severe penalties:
✔️ Fines starting from 30,000 baht.
✔️ Imprisonment for up to 10 years or deportation.
These are not just scare tactics. There have been real cases where tourists were fined for buying or selling IQOS sticks. For example, in 2017, four tourists were arrested on Phuket for vaping, and the total fines amounted to around 100,000 baht. In 2019, a French tourist was fined 40,000 baht for using an e-cigarette on a Pattaya beach. These cases show that Thai authorities take the e-cigarette ban very seriously. It’s better not to risk your vacation or your wallet!
Vaping on Phuket: Reality
We understand that many tourists continue to use e-cigarettes in Thailand. Yes, you can find shops on the island that sell them. But remember: it’s illegal, and the consequences can be unpredictable. Only the police know how such a purchase might end.
Tips for Smokers: How to Avoid Problems
✔️ Leave your e-cigarettes at home—it’s safer that way.
✔️ If you smoke regular cigarettes, find out where smoking is allowed.
✔️ Consider using nicotine patches or gum.
Maybe this is the perfect time to quit smoking? Phuket’s beauty will surely help distract you!
Conclusion
Friends, Phuket is a paradise with white-sand beaches, emerald seas, and amazing cuisine. Enjoy this corner of the world, follow the local laws, and your vacation will be unforgettable! Share this article with friends planning a trip to the Kingdom.
If you have any questions, contact the Russian Embassy in Thailand or reach out to us. We are always happy to help make your vacation safe and enjoyable! Visit Phuket, discover its wonders, and let your holiday be filled with only pleasant memories!
- Vapes (vaping devices)
- E-cigarettes
- Heated tobacco products (e.g., IQOS and similar)
- Liquids, cartridges, and refills for these devices
- Import, sale, distribution, possession, and use of such devices.
- Fines starting from around 30,000 THB
- Imprisonment of up to 10 years
- Possible deportation for foreigners
- In 2017, four tourists in Phuket were arrested for vaping and fined a total of about 100,000 THB.
- In 2019, a French tourist in Pattaya was fined 40,000 THB for using an e-cigarette on the beach.
- Despite the ban, some tourists still use vapes in Thailand.
- Hidden shops may still exist, but purchasing or possessing devices is illegal, and consequences can be unpredictable.
- Police have the right to enforce the law even if the device is “for personal use only.”
- Do not bring e-cigarettes or vaping devices into Thailand.
- If you already have one, leave it at home and do not attempt to use it.
- If you smoke regular cigarettes, check where smoking is legally allowed.
- Consider nicotine patches or gum as temporary alternatives.
- Avoid buying or using e-cigarettes in Thailand to stay safe.
