Thailand's Narcotics Control Board announced on 25/6 that it would consult with the Ministry of Public Health on implementing a decree signed earlier this week by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin. The decree imposes stricter controls on the use of cannabis for medical purposes.
Somsak's decree bans the sale of cannabis for recreational use, requiring a doctor's prescription for all retail cannabis transactions.
The regulation will take effect after its publication in the Royal Gazette, expected in the coming days. "Cannabis will be classified as a narcotic in the future," Somsak said.
This marks a significant policy shift for Thailand, which legalized recreational cannabis use three years ago.
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Outside a cannabis shop in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2024. Photo: AFP |
Outside a cannabis shop in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2024. Photo: AFP
Since then, tens of thousands of cannabis businesses and shops have sprung up across Thailand, largely concentrated in tourist centers. The Thai Chamber of Commerce estimates the cannabis industry, including medicinal products, to be worth 1.2 billion USD in 2025.
Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub said uncontrolled cannabis use has caused serious social problems, particularly for children and adolescents.
"This policy must be reshaped to return to its original purpose of controlling cannabis for medical use," Jirayu said in a statement.
The Thai government’s move comes after the Bhumjaithai party, which supported cannabis legalization, withdrew from the ruling coalition last week in response to a leaked phone conversation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen concerning border issues.
The Public Health Ministry's new decision has shocked many working in Thailand's cannabis industry. "This is my main source of income. Many businesses are probably also shocked because they have invested a lot in this field," said Punnathat Phutthisawong, who works at the Green House Thailand shop in Bangkok.
Duc Trung (Reuters, Bangkok Post)
