Key measures in this law include a ban on selling tobacco products to people aged under 20, and a ban on people aged under 18 selling tobacco products. The measures also include a ban on selling tobacco products at religious sites, hospitals and pharmacies, all educational institutions, and public parks, zoos and amusement parks.

There is also a ban on all forms of tobacco advertising and marketing, and on tobacco businesses conducting corporate social responsibility activities.

Sponsoring individuals or organisations to promote products is also outlawed, while businesses are not allowed to display products for sale and can’t sell loose cigarettes.

Violators of a smoking ban in a public place face a hiked fine of Bt5,000 (from the previous Bt2,000), while business owners must warn patrons not to smoke or face a fine of Bt3,000.

According to Public Health Minister Dr Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn, up to 50,000 people die from smoking-related illnesses per year in Thailand.

He said the government spends up to Bt75 billion each year on treating such patients. He expressed hope that the updated Act will reduce the number of young people smoking and better protect the rights of non-smokers, who outnumber smokers.

The move came after Thailand ratified the World Health Organisation’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

Meanwhile, officials from Nong Khai Public Health Office yesterday launched a campaign to explain the new law to shops and groceries selling cigarettes especially those near schools within the city area.