Thailand Proposes Restricting Cannabis to Medical Use Amid Regulatory Concerns

Thailand is taking a step back from its liberal cannabis policies with a new proposal aimed at restricting the plant's use primarily to medical purposes. This move comes after months of uncertainty and debate over the future of cannabis regulation in the country. The draft legislation, introduced shortly after Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra took office, seeks to impose fines and penalties on those using cannabis outside the proposed medical framework. This proposal marks a significant shift from earlier plans to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic

The journey of cannabis legalization in Thailand has been a rollercoaster since the country became the first in Asia to decriminalize the plant for medical use in 2022. Initially, the market appeared largely unregulated, with cannabis dispensaries and neon signs becoming commonplace in tourist-heavy areas like Bangkok. The ease of access to cannabis-infused products led to public concern over potential misuse and crime, which became a focal point in the recent elections

The political landscape in Thailand has shifted with the election of a conservative coalition government led by the Pheu Thai Party. This party has been vocal about the need to curb recreational cannabis use, citing health risks and potential substance abuse among young people. Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had previously advocated for the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic, but the new leadership under Shinawatra is taking a more nuanced approach by focusing on medical regulation

Despite the proposed restrictions, cannabis advocates have been vocal in their opposition. In July 2023, protests erupted in Bangkok with hundreds of people marching against a potential ban on general cannabis use. Protesters argue that rescheduling the plant as a narcotic could negatively impact the burgeoning cannabis industry, which has seen over 1.1 million Thais register for licenses to grow cannabis, and more than 6,000 dispensaries open across the country

Anutin Charnvirakul, the former Health Minister who played a crucial role in the initial legalization of cannabis, has expressed concerns about the proposed rollback. While acknowledging the need for regulation, Anutin warns that overly restrictive measures could harm the industry. He emphasizes that the Bhumjaithai Party does not support recreational cannabis use but advocates for a balanced approach that supports the economic benefits of the cannabis sector

The proposed legislation has sparked a national debate on the future of cannabis in Thailand. While some citizens support stricter regulations, others fear the economic repercussions of a rollback. The Health Ministry's survey indicated a majority support for the ban, yet the results have not been publicly shared, leaving room for speculation. As the government prepares to finalize the legislation, the cannabis industry and its stakeholders await the outcome with bated breath

As Thailand navigates this complex issue, the cannabis industry continues to operate under a cloud of uncertainty. With public feedback on the proposal concluded in September, the next steps involve Cabinet and parliamentary review. Meanwhile, cannabis shops remain open, but the future of recreational cannabis use hangs in the balance. The outcome of this regulatory shift could set a precedent for cannabis policy not only in Thailand but potentially across Asia