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Thailand: Overview

Consumption

• Approximately 27 percent of the population in Thailand use some form of tobacco: 46 percent of men and 9 percent of women use tobacco.
• Among youth (age 13-15), 12 percent smoke cigarettes and 8 percent use tobacco products other than cigarettes.

Health consequences

• In 2006, an estimated 55,000 Thais died from tobacco-related diseases.
• Among youth (age 13-15), 68 percent are exposed to secondhand smoke in public places and 49 percent are exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes.

Tobacco industry

The Thailand Tobacco Monopoly (TTM) dominates the tobacco market in Thailand. TTM is a state-owned enterprise and is the only domestic tobacco producer in Thailand. In 2008, TTM held 67% of the total cigarette market. Philip Morris International ranked second with a market share of 27 percent, followed by British American Tobacco (3 percent), and Japan Tobacco (0.5 percent.) In Thailand, more than 38 billion cigarettes were sold in 2008.

FCTC status

Thailand ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on November 8, 2004.

Tobacco control policy analysis

Smoke-free environments: In Thailand, smoking is banned in all indoor public places, including restaurants and bars. Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport is the only public area where a smoking zone is allowed inside.

Advertising, promotion and sponsorship: All forms of tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship are banned.

Warning labels: Thailand was one of the first countries to implement graphic health warnings. In 2010, warning labels were increased from 50 percent to 55 percent. Graphic warnings cover 55 percent of the front and 55 percent of the back of packages.

Tobacco taxes: The government increases tobacco taxes every year. As a result, cigarette taxes and prices remain relatively high compared to other countries in the region.