Government Seizes 32,812 Illegal Goods Cases in 10 Months

Deputy government spokesman Ploythalae Laksameesuangchan revealed that the government has stepped up strict prevention and suppression of illegal excise goods nationwide, particularly targeting smuggled cigarette imports and sales, which are the most commonly detected illegal goods and cause significant damage to state revenue and unfair competition for legitimate businesses. The Excise Department, Ministry of Finance, has enhanced coordination with security and relevant agencies to strengthen investigations, intelligence, and proactive operations to intercept smuggling networks under government policy and Prime Minister Anuthine Charnweerakul's directives. During the 10-month fiscal period from October 1, 2568 to July 31, 2569, enforcement resulted in 32,812 total cases with 901.82 million baht in imposed fines and an estimated 4.51 billion baht in total penalties. Tobacco cases represent the largest violation category at 20,160 cases, or 61 percent of all cases, with 609.39 million baht in imposed fines and estimated 4.38 billion baht in total penalties, along with the seizure of 4,862,367 cigarette packs. Deputy spokesman Laksameesuangchan stated that integrated agency operations have improved enforcement efficiency, enabling the seizure of significant illegal goods across multiple regions nationwide covering all excise product categories. The government is committed to enhancing state revenue collection efficiency while seriously suppressing illegal tax-evading trade to ensure fairness for law-abiding businesses and protect national interests.