The smoking ban, which took effect February 17 (Sunday), is met with mixed reactions. Venue owners are apprehensive in implementing the ban, fearing that it may drive away their customers.
"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," Hatai Chitanond of the ministry's Health Promotion Institute, has been quoted as saying.
Fines of $68 or 2,000 baht will however be slapped on violators. Government officials have implemented a grace period until June 2008 before meting out fines.
Many club-goers don't mind the ban since it exists in almost all countries. Thais and expatriates alike also welcome the smoking ban at it will spare them from second-hand smoke.
