Accra:First paragraph of the news story.
According to Thai News Agency, the Customs Department seized over 105 million smuggled cigarettes and e-cigarettes in 2026 as part of its ongoing efforts to tackle the problem. The department is advancing its use of artificial intelligence to analyze data and improve risk screening processes, with plans to increase fines to double the total price, including duties, in a bid to prevent illegal goods from entering the market.
The smuggling of illegal goods continues to pose a significant challenge, impacting the economy, government revenue, fair trade, national security, and public health. Smuggled cigarettes and e-cigarettes are frequently imported and distributed through online channels and domestic transportation systems. As a frontline agency, the Customs Department is upgrading its measures and leveraging technology to more effectively intercept illegal goods and protect national interests.
Mr. Panthong Loykulnan, Director-General of the Customs Department, highlighted the difficulty in suppressing illegal goods smuggling, as offenders continuously adapt their methods. In fiscal year 2026, the department seized 59,840 cases of illegal activity, amounting to 4,832.35 million baht. Among these, 9,750 cases involved goods affecting public health and safety, valued at over 1,234 million baht. Specifically, 3,748 cases involved illegal cigarettes and e-cigarettes, resulting in the confiscation of over 105 million items worth approximately 566 million baht.
The problem of smuggled cigarettes is not unique to Thailand and results in significant tax revenue losses for the government. Mr. Panthong explained that smuggling methods have become more sophisticated, with goods often concealed within containers or disassembled to evade detection. The Customs Department is now utilizing an AI-Driven Risk Management approach, integrating various data sources to identify risks and improve the efficiency of intercepting smuggling networks.
In collaboration with security agencies and related organizations, the Customs Department is working to dismantle smuggling networks systematically. New penalties for offenders include fines twice the price of the goods, including duties, and additional taxes and expenses. Seized goods are confiscated as state property to deter future smuggling activities.
The ongoing efforts to combat smuggled cigarettes and e-cigarettes aim to protect public health, especially for youth, while safeguarding government revenue and national interests.