Thailand is set to implement a new regulation requiring individuals to present medical certificates when purchasing cannabis. This announcement, made by Somruek Chungsaman, head of the health ministry’s department of traditional and alternative medicine, aims to tighten controls on cannabis use three years after its decriminalization.
The regulation is expected to be officially announced within the next 40 days and will stipulate that both Thai citizens and foreigners must obtain a doctor’s prescription to buy cannabis flowers for smoking. Chungsaman emphasized the need for this measure, stating, “We don’t want people saying they came to Thailand just to smoke cannabis. That gives a negative impression.”
Previously, Thailand’s health minister had indicated that recreational cannabis use would be banned by the end of last year, but no such restrictions have been implemented to date. The cannabis industry in Thailand is projected to be worth over $1 billion annually, and so far, the government has issued limited regulations, including bans on cannabis sales near schools and requirements for retailers to provide clear product usage information.
The health ministry is also drafting a comprehensive cannabis law, which will require cabinet approval before being sent to parliament for discussion. Advocates for cannabis rights have expressed concerns about the necessity of the new medical certificate requirement, noting that cannabis use has already declined following an initial surge after legalization. Prasitchai Nunual, secretary-general of Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network, stated, “Cannabis is not popular among youth. In fact, the number of smokers has not increased at all, which has caused many shops to shut down.”
As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, stakeholders in Thailand’s cannabis industry will need to adapt to these changes while balancing public health concerns and economic opportunities.
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