Thailand to ban smoking in bars, restaurants
Smoking will soon be banned in Thailand’s air-conditioned entertainment venues such as nightclubs and pubs as well as open-air markets.
The country’s Public Health Ministry said the new ban will take effect from February 17, according to an Associated Press report.
Outdoor restaurants will be required to set up non-smoking areas. Violaters would be fined Bt 2,000 baht (US$60) with night club and restaurant owners facing a Bt20,000 baht fine, a health ministry official was quoted saying in an AFP report.
Thailand already bans smoking at public places such as government buildings, train stations and hospitals. In addition to banning smoking in Bangkok’s bars and nightclubs, the new regulation will also prevent people from lighting up in the popular Chatuchak market, the city’s biggest outdoor market and a major tourist draw, AFP said.
“We expect some resistance from operators of nightclubs and pubs. They may fear it would hurt their business but it will be better for the health of their workers and their customers,” a ministry official told Associated Press.
Koonmongkon, president of the 70,000-member Thai Restaurant Association, was quoted saying by AFP that smokers would cooperate.
“This shouldn’t cause any problems. I think it’s a sign of the success of the government’s campaign to raise public awareness about smoking.”
Thailand already bans smoking at public places such as government buildings, train stations and hospitals.
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