New decree tightens controls on non-medical use of cannabis in Thailand

The Thai Ministry of Public Health has issued a new decree aimed at tightening controls on the use of cannabis for commercial, research, and educational purposes, as well as for export.

The law, which took effect this weekend, replaces the one published on June 16, which has been widely criticized for being too lenient and open to abuse.

Under the new decree, only the cannabis flower is classified as a controlled part of the plant—unlike the leaves, which can be used more widely, for example in cooking—and anyone who wishes to conduct research, study, export, sell, or process this herb for commercial purposes must obtain an official permit and comply with the associated conditions.

The sale of cannabis in any form to students, individuals under the age of 20, pregnant women, or nursing mothers is prohibited.

Restaurants must clearly indicate any additives, such as leaves. If dishes are prepared with cannabis, restaurants must clearly state this, whether it is made from flowers or cannabis leaves. Otherwise, consumers can sue restaurant owners and business owners.

Sales through vending machines or from vans, such as the one shown at the top of this article, are now prohibited. Consumption on business premises is also prohibited, unless the sale is made by doctors, traditional medicine practitioners, or certified rural doctors and is for medical use.

Any form of advertising for commercial purposes is prohibited.

Cannabis may no longer be sold in public parks, amusement parks, temples, places of worship, or inns.

About 5,000 sales licenses have already been issued nationwide.

The final regulation of cannabis, the Cannabis Act, is still expected by both cannabis growers and retailers. It is expected to arrive in early 2024.