A ban on smoking in restaurants, bars and nightclubs went into effect in Thailand on 11 February.

Effective immediately, smoking in bars, restaurants and even open-air markets can be punished with a THB 2,000 (USD 60) fine. Owners of venues that allow smoking could face a THB 20,000 fine.
However, Bangkok restaurant and bar owners said they were not informed of the ban and fear that the ban will ruin their businesses. The health ministry said bar and restaurant owners will not be fined until June and that they are prepared to advise businesses on complying with the new rules.
The ban was approved in January with little debate by Thailand's recently-departed military regime. The country has already banned smoking at government buildings, train stations and hospitals. (pi)