Thailand Tightens Cannabis Regulations: From Recreational to Medical Use Only

The Thai government has tightened cannabis regulations again, completely banning recreational use and limiting it to medical purposes only. This uncertainty has led to concerns for many travelers planning to visit Thailand, fearing they may inadvertently break the law.
According to a summary by “Bangkok Mama Mimi,” the key points of Thailand's current cannabis policy are as follows:
- CBD and cannabis will not be relisted as controlled substances, and the proposal to ban them requires extensive discussion.
- The new regulation requires customers to present a prescription to purchase cannabis products, offering a transition period of 30 to 90 days for businesses to train employees and adjust systems.
- Employees can be trained to obtain a qualification to issue prescriptions on-site, and pharmacists as well as dentists can also issue them.
Users currently need not worry about purchasing without a prescription, as home cultivation and personal use remain legal. The oversight is under the Ministry of Public Health, not law enforcement agencies.
It’s important to note that government positions may rapidly change, so staying updated with the latest announcements is crucial.