The industry says the move will have a major effect on where meeting and incentive planners
organise future business events.
The ban came into effect on February 17 and aligns Thailand’s anti-smoking laws with those of other major developed countries.
Proprietors who do not enforce the law are liable to a fine of up to US$600. Individuals
caught breaking the law face a US$60 fine.
Some owners may oppose the law, said Hatai Chitanondh, president of the Thailand Health
Promotion Institute.
He said: “They may be thinking the Health Ministry is ruining their business, but our research papers show a smoking ban will bring more customers to them.”
Thailand enforces strict anti-smoking penalties
BANGKOK Thailand has banned smoking in all airconditioned bars, restaurants, offices and open-air markets across the kingdom.
