Thailand is tightening regulations on cannabis access in response to a recent increase in smuggling incidents. Following the interception of 73 kilograms of cannabis at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, the government announced new rules that will require medical prescriptions for purchasing cannabis from dispensaries.
Under the proposed regulations, which are set to take effect in approximately 40 days, only individuals with licenses or prescriptions from medical professionals, including traditional medicine practitioners, will be allowed to buy cannabis. Additionally, sales will be restricted to a quantity sufficient for 30 days of use, according to the Ministry of Public Health.
These rules apply to both Thai citizens and foreign tourists. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin indicated that smuggled cannabis from Thailand has been discovered in various locations, including the United Kingdom, India, Pakistan, and Hong Kong. With this crackdown, the Thai government aims to limit cannabis access primarily to medical purposes.
Since Thailand became the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis in 2022, it has faced challenges in regulating its use. The lack of a comprehensive cannabis law has led to the proliferation of over 10,700 dispensaries across the country, many situated in tourist-heavy areas and urban centers like Bangkok.
In response to growing concerns about addiction linked to recreational cannabis use, Minister Somsak’s Pheu Thai Party had proposed reclassifying marijuana as a narcotic to restrict its use. However, opposition from the Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest group in the ruling coalition, has prevented this move, allowing cannabis to remain legal for now.
Despite legal consumption within Thailand, cannabis smuggling remains a significant issue, with tourists attempting to export the product through luggage or mail. Since the collaboration between British and Thai authorities began last year, over 50 British nationals have faced arrest in Thailand for attempting to smuggle cannabis. Furthermore, Thai airport authorities have intercepted more than 800 individuals involved in cannabis smuggling and confiscated over 9 tons of the substance, according to a statement from the British government.
The new regulations are seen as a temporary measure while Thailand continues to develop a comprehensive cannabis bill aimed at regulating broader uses, sales, exports, and production of cannabis. The draft bill, unveiled in September, has not yet been approved by the cabinet or brought before parliament for discussion. Minister Somsak has stated that the process could take up to two more years before a finalized bill is ready for implementation. If public dissatisfaction continues, he warned that the government may consider reinstating criminal penalties for cannabis use.
Stakeholders and the public will have until June 5 to submit feedback on the proposed regulation, which will then be reviewed by the cabinet for approval.
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