Thailand blocks over 9,500 URLs linked to online e-cigarette sales

Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) has announced the blocking of more than 9,500 URLs associated with the illegal online sale of vaping products. The move, revealed in early March, is part of the government's efforts to enforce national laws prohibiting the use and distribution of vaping devices.[1].

A vast digital surveillance campaign

This large-scale operation targeted a wide range of online platforms used to promote or sell e-cigarettes, often circumventing existing legal restrictions. In total, more than 9,500 digital spaces were shut down, including 9,200 accounts on X (formerly Twitter), 235 websites, 28 Facebook pages, 12 Instagram accounts, and 14 TikTok profiles. In addition, 120 Facebook groups facilitating the exchange and sale of e-cigarettes were dismantled.

According to the ministry, this operation was carried out thanks to reports from internet users and the cooperation of social media companies. Authorities now plan to take legal action against those responsible for these illegal accounts, particularly if they target teenagers or spread false information about vaping.

This action comes at a time when more and more young Thais are using e-cigarettes. A study[2] A World Health Organization (WHO) study shows that the number of Thai adolescents aged 13 to 15 using e-cigarettes has increased from 3.3% in 2015 to 17.6% in 2022. Health experts say this sharp increase is partly due to online marketing and social media content that makes e-cigarettes attractive.

Thailand's strict legal framework on vaping

Thailand maintains one of the most restrictive legal frameworks in the world regarding vaping. Since 2014, the importation, sale, possession, and use of e-cigarettes have been prohibited by national law. Violators, whether Thai nationals or foreign visitors, face severe penalties, including fines of up to 600,000 baht (approximately €16,000) and imprisonment of up to 10 years.

Authorities justify this approach on public health grounds, citing the high addictiveness of nicotine and the lack of long-term evidence of vaping's safety. The WHO and Thai public health authorities have called for continued vigilance and stricter enforcement, warning that tobacco and nicotine companies are using evolving digital strategies, including algorithm-based advertising and private messaging apps, to circumvent bans and reach younger populations.

Thai authorities have announced that they will remain proactive in adapting law enforcement tools to new forms of online marketing.

©Generation Without Tobacco

AE

[1] 9,500 online links to vape products blocked, Bangkok Post, published March 25, 2025, accessed March 27, 2025

[2] Press release, World No Tobacco Day 2024 – Protecting children from tobacco industry interference, WHO, published May 31, 2024, accessed March 27, 2025