Thailand
A youth group to prevent new drinkers has expanded its mandate and urged the government to pass tobacco legislation to stop new smokers.
The youth group, as well as a group of university students, have met with deputy prime minister Yongyuth Yuthavong to show support for the government’s efforts to prevent youth smoking.
However, they said that the two-decade-old Tobacco Products Control Act is outdated and cannot adapt to new product developments that sidestep its regulations.
The network has been observing product evolution in the tobacco industry and its impact on consumers. The deputy prime minister said the government places great importance on the welfare of children as the future of Thailand.
He added that the law must first be deliberated by the National Legislative Assembly. He insisted that the government will do its best to enforce the law soon.