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Updated info on Thailand's cannabis clinics and added legal requirements for operating dispensaries.
Self-contradictory, recreational use is said to be both illegal (lead and laws) and legal (regulations)
 
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{{short description|Use of cannabis in Thailand}}
{{short description|none}} <!-- "none" is preferred when the title is sufficiently descriptive; see [[WP:SDNONE]] -->
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2022}}
{{Self-contradictory|about=recreational use is both said to be illegal (lead and laws) and legal (regulations)|date=September 2024}}
{{Infobox cannabis overview
| image = Thailand (orthographic projection).svg
| caption = Location of Thailand (dark green)
| medicinal = Legal
| recreational = Legal
| spiritual = Legal
| hemp = Legal
}}
[[File:Bangkok - cannabis "drinks" sold in convenience stores.jpg|thumb|Bottles of cannabis-infused drink on a "healthy drink" shelf of a convenience store in Bangkok, photo taken in 2023]]
[[File:Bangkok - cannabis "drinks" sold in convenience stores.jpg|thumb|Bottles of cannabis-infused drink on a "healthy drink" shelf of a convenience store in Bangkok, photo taken in 2023]]


In [[Thailand]], cannabis, known by the name ''Ganja'' ({{lang-th|กัญชา}}; {{rtgs|''kancha''}}) has recently had new laws passed through. Cannabis that has less than 0.2% THC, referred to as [[Hemp|industrial hemp]] in USA, was legalised on 9 June 2022. [[Medical cannabis|Medicinal cannabis]], with no THC restrictions, was made legal in 2018 but required patients to obtain a prescription from a medical practitioner. [[Recreational cannabis]] is still illegal, according to Thai law.
In [[Thailand]], cannabis, known by the name ''Ganja'' ({{lang-th|กัญชา}}; {{rtgs|''kancha''}}) has recently had new laws passed through. Cannabis that has less than 0.2% THC, referred to as [[Hemp|industrial hemp]] in USA, was legalised on 9 June 2022. [[Medical cannabis|Medicinal cannabis]], with no THC restrictions, was made legal in 2018 but required patients to obtain a prescription from a medical practitioner. [[Recreational cannabis]] is still illegal{{Citation needed|reason=This sounds incorrect, The Royal Gazette (Thailand) - ราชกิจจานุเบกษา says it's legal to consume any cannabis not just medical, and though the incoming government wants to ban recreational cannabis, they likely do not have the power to do so. Please update this to the true laws as seen in the Regulations section, this sounds like it was written by someone who is anti cannabis or similar...|date=December 2023}} according to Thai law.


Possession, cultivation, distribution, consumption, and sales of all cannabis plant parts are legal, as long as it is operated under the 2 laws. Cannabis extracts and cannabis products (including edibles, food supplements, cosmetics, etc.) containing more than 0.2% [[THC]] by dry weight are still categorised as a Category 5 narcotic.
Possession, cultivation, distribution, consumption, and sales of all cannabis plant parts are legal, as long as it is operated under the two laws. Cannabis extracts and cannabis products (including edibles, food supplements, cosmetics, etc.) containing more than 0.2% [[THC]] by dry weight are still categorised as a Category 5 narcotic.


Import and export of cannabis are still highly regulated.
Import and export of cannabis are still highly regulated.
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[[File:Bangkok - cannabis "snacks" sold in convenience stores - im 02.jpg|thumb|Packages of drumstick-shaped chips claiming to "contain cannabis leaves" sold at a supermarket in Bangkok]]
[[File:Bangkok - cannabis "snacks" sold in convenience stores - im 02.jpg|thumb|Packages of drumstick-shaped chips claiming to "contain cannabis leaves" sold at a supermarket in Bangkok]]


The possession, cultivation, sale, and use of cannabis was criminalised by the Cannabis Act 2477 BE (1935)<ref>{{cite journal|title=พระราชบัญญัติกันชา พุทธศักราช ๒๔๗๗|journal=Royal Thai Government Gazette|date=5 May 1935|volume=52|pages=339–343|url=http://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2478/A/339.PDF|access-date=6 December 2016|archive-date=4 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004080008/http://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2478/A/339.PDF|url-status=dead}}</ref> and again by the Narcotics Act 2522 BE (1979).<ref name="SL">{{cite web |title=Criminal Drug Offences in Thailand |url=https://www.siam-legal.com/litigation/criminal-defence-drug-offences-in-thailand.php |website=Siam Legal |access-date=2018-12-12 |archive-date=21 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021232243/https://www.siam-legal.com/litigation/criminal-defence-drug-offences-in-thailand.php |url-status=live }}</ref>
The possession, cultivation, sale, and use of cannabis were criminalised by the Cannabis Act 2477 BE (1935)<ref>{{cite journal|title=พระราชบัญญัติกันชา พุทธศักราช ๒๔๗๗|journal=Royal Thai Government Gazette|date=5 May 1935|volume=52|pages=339–343|url=http://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2478/A/339.PDF|access-date=6 December 2016|archive-date=4 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004080008/http://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2478/A/339.PDF|url-status=dead}}</ref> and again by the Narcotics Act 2522 BE (1979).


In 2018, Thailand became the first Asian nation to legalize [[medical cannabis]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Thailand-approves-medical-marijuana-in-New-Year-s-gift|title=Thailand approves medical marijuana in New Year's 'gift'|website=Nikkei Asia|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213090854/https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Thailand-approves-medical-marijuana-in-New-Year-s-gift|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-07-18/thailand-is-poised-to-take-an-early-lead-in-the-cannabis-race|title=Thailand's Unlikely Embrace of Cannabis|newspaper=Bloomberg.com|date=July 18, 2019|via=www.bloomberg.com|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-date=24 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424051650/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-07-18/thailand-is-poised-to-take-an-early-lead-in-the-cannabis-race|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2018, Thailand became the first Asian nation to legalize [[medical cannabis]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Thailand-approves-medical-marijuana-in-New-Year-s-gift|title=Thailand approves medical marijuana in New Year's 'gift'|website=Nikkei Asia|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213090854/https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Thailand-approves-medical-marijuana-in-New-Year-s-gift|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-07-18/thailand-is-poised-to-take-an-early-lead-in-the-cannabis-race|title=Thailand's Unlikely Embrace of Cannabis|newspaper=Bloomberg.com|date=July 18, 2019|via=www.bloomberg.com|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-date=24 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424051650/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-07-18/thailand-is-poised-to-take-an-early-lead-in-the-cannabis-race|url-status=live}}</ref>
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Cannabis dispensaries were available as early as April 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/cannabis/us-company-opens-medical-marijuana-clinic-in-thailand |title=Cannabis US company opens medical marijuana clinic in Thailand |access-date=27 April 2022 |archive-date=26 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220426180851/https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/cannabis/us-company-opens-medical-marijuana-clinic-in-thailand |url-status=live }}</ref>
Cannabis dispensaries were available as early as April 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/cannabis/us-company-opens-medical-marijuana-clinic-in-thailand |title=Cannabis US company opens medical marijuana clinic in Thailand |access-date=27 April 2022 |archive-date=26 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220426180851/https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/cannabis/us-company-opens-medical-marijuana-clinic-in-thailand |url-status=live }}</ref>


On 9 June 2022, cannabis extracts containing less than 0.2% THC, referred to as [[Hemp|industrial hemp]], was decriminalised.
On 9 June 2022, cannabis extracts containing less than 0.2% THC, referred to as [[Hemp|industrial hemp]], were decriminalised.


Medicinal cannabis, with no THC restrictions, was made legal in 2018 but required patients to obtain a prescription from a medical practitioner.
Medicinal cannabis, with no THC restrictions, was made legal in 2018 but required patients to obtain a prescription from a medical practitioner.


Recreational cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, is still illegal according to Thai law. Cannabis extracts and cannabis products (including edibles, food supplements, cosmetics, etc.) containing more than 0.2% [[THC]] by dry weight are still categorised as a Category 5 narcotic.
Recreational cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, is still illegal according to Thai law.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023|reason=Prove it... This is not what the official Royal Gazette of Thailand says. Cannabis consumption, growing and possessing cannabis for individual use is completely legal in Thailand.}} Cannabis extracts and cannabis products (including edibles, food supplements, cosmetics, etc.) containing more than 0.2% [[THC]] by dry weight are still categorised as a Category 5 narcotic.


Around 4,200 prisoners were released as a result of the decriminalisation on the same day.<ref name="Thairat1">{{Cite web | url=https://www.thairath.co.th/news/crime/2413841 | title=ปลดล็อกกัญชา 9 มิ.ย.นี้ ทำอะไรได้แค่ไหน สายเขียวปุ๊นในที่สาธารณะได้หรือไม่ | publisher=ไทยรัฐ | date=12 June 2022 | access-date=12 June 2022 | archive-date=12 June 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612124700/https://www.thairath.co.th/news/crime/2413841 | url-status=live }}</ref>
Around 4,200 prisoners were released as a result of the decriminalisation on the same day.<ref name="Thairat1">{{Cite web | url=https://www.thairath.co.th/news/crime/2413841 | title=ปลดล็อกกัญชา 9 มิ.ย.นี้ ทำอะไรได้แค่ไหน สายเขียวปุ๊นในที่สาธารณะได้หรือไม่ | publisher=ไทยรัฐ | date=12 June 2022 | access-date=12 June 2022 | archive-date=12 June 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612124700/https://www.thairath.co.th/news/crime/2413841 | url-status=live }}</ref>
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====Recreational cannabis====
====Recreational cannabis====
Recreational cannabis, often referred to as 'recreational marijuana' or 'marijuana', is still illegal under Thai Law.
Recreational cannabis, often referred to as 'recreational marijuana' or 'marijuana', has become legal under Thai Law.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023|reason=100% Correct, but please add up to date links to the current Royal Gazette and or Thai government legislation, preferably translated to English so we can update the incorrect Laws and Introduction Sections of this article}}


====Industrial Hemp====
====Industrial Hemp====
Cannabis or hemp extracts containing less than 0.2% THC is allowed without any restrictions. The most common CBD products are oils, tinctures, gummies, lotions and balms.
Cannabis or hemp extracts containing less than 0.2% THC is allowed without any restrictions. The most common CBD products are oils, tinctures, gummies, lotions and balms.

====Cannabis extracts====

Cannabis extracts, including Hash are still considered a Category 5 narcotic as long as they contain over 0.2% THC. On 9 February 2024 it was announced in the Royal Gazette that the possession of more than 30 grams or 30 milliliters is considered as an intent to distribute. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-10 |title=New regulations on cannabis extracts - HighThailand |url=https://www.highthailand.com/new-regulations-on-cannabis-extracts/ |access-date=2024-02-10 |language=en-US}}</ref>


===Cultivation===
===Cultivation===
In order to cultivate cannabis, individuals must register with the country's Food and Drug Administration.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Root |first=Rebecca |date=2023-01-09 |title=Consuming cannabis in Thailand: what tourists need to know about marijuana rules |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jan/10/consuming-cannabis-in-thailand-what-tourists-need-to-know-marijuana-weed-rules |access-date=2023-06-20 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> There are currently no restrictions on how many plants each individual can cultivate. The specific law regulating cannabis is still pending in Thai parliament as of 2023. However, the government urges people to register their cannabis plantation on the website or the application "Plookganja" (meaning "Let's grow cannabis") in case that the future cannabis law may require the license.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://plookganja.fda.moph.go.th/|title=Plookganja.fda.moph.go.th|publisher=Food and Drug Administration of Thailand|access-date=12 June 2022|archive-date=11 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220611041528/https://plookganja.fda.moph.go.th/|url-status=live}}</ref>
In order to cultivate cannabis, individuals must register with the country's Food and Drug Administration.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Root |first=Rebecca |date=2023-01-09 |title=Consuming cannabis in Thailand: what tourists need to know about marijuana rules |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jan/10/consuming-cannabis-in-thailand-what-tourists-need-to-know-marijuana-weed-rules |access-date=2023-06-20 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> There are currently no restrictions on how many plants each individual can cultivate. The specific law regulating cannabis is still pending in Thai parliament as of 2023. However, the government urges people to register their cannabis plantation on the website or the application "Plookganja" (meaning "to plant cannabis") in case that the future cannabis law may require the license.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://plookganja.fda.moph.go.th/|title=Plookganja.fda.moph.go.th|publisher=Food and Drug Administration of Thailand|access-date=12 June 2022|archive-date=11 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220611041528/https://plookganja.fda.moph.go.th/|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Supply===
===Supply===
Thai law essentially excludes all foreign companies as well as foreign majority companies incorporated in Thailand from producing, selling, importing, exporting, and processing cannabis. The move has been viewed as an effort to protect local companies from the onslaught of highly resourceful and modern technology equipped foreign actors, however "imported" strains are widely available and dominated the market.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-cannabis-idUSKBN1OB0D0|title=Weeding out foreigners: strains over Thailand's legalization of marijuana|first=Kanupriya Kapoor, Panarat|last=Thepgumpanat|newspaper=Reuters|date=December 12, 2018|via=www.reuters.com|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213090853/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-cannabis-idUSKBN1OB0D0|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sabaghi |first=Dario |title=Thailand’s Election Results May Reverse Cannabis Policy |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/dariosabaghi/2023/05/16/how-thailands-election-results-may-reverse-cannabis-policy/ |access-date=2023-06-27 |website=Forbes |language=en}}</ref>
Thai law essentially excludes all foreign companies as well as foreign majority companies incorporated in Thailand from producing, selling, importing, exporting, and processing cannabis. The move has been viewed as an effort to protect local companies from the onslaught of highly resourceful and modern technology equipped foreign actors, however "imported" strains are widely available and dominated the market.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-cannabis-idUSKBN1OB0D0|title=Weeding out foreigners: strains over Thailand's legalization of marijuana|first=Kanupriya Kapoor, Panarat|last=Thepgumpanat|newspaper=Reuters|date=December 12, 2018|via=www.reuters.com|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213090853/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-cannabis-idUSKBN1OB0D0|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sabaghi |first=Dario |title=Thailand's Election Results May Reverse Cannabis Policy |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/dariosabaghi/2023/05/16/how-thailands-election-results-may-reverse-cannabis-policy/ |access-date=2023-06-27 |website=Forbes |language=en}}</ref>


===Distribution===
===Distribution===
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===Current situation===
===Current situation===
In Thailand, the government is taking measures to tighten regulations around the country's emerging cannabis industry, particularly to limit its recreational use. This action includes the submission of a revised cannabis bill to the Cabinet, proposed for December 2023. This bill aims to address loopholes in marijuana usage, establish new guidelines for cultivation, and introduce criminal penalties. This move follows Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's commitment to restrict cannabis use primarily for medical purposes, a response to the rapid opening of numerous cannabis shops across Thailand following its decriminalization, making it the first Asian nation to do so.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/thailand-to-tighten-cannabis-rules-after-6-000-weed-shops-open-1.1998875|title=Thailand to Tighten Cannabis Rules After 6,000 Weed Shops Open|website=BNN Bloomberg|access-date=2023-12-09}}</ref>
In Thailand, the government is taking measures to tighten regulations around the country's emerging cannabis industry, particularly to limit its recreational use. This action includes the submission of a revised cannabis bill to the Cabinet, proposed for December 2023. This bill aims to address loopholes in marijuana usage, establish new guidelines for cultivation, and introduce criminal penalties. This move follows Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's commitment to restrict cannabis use primarily for medical purposes, a response to the rapid opening of numerous cannabis shops across Thailand following its decriminalization, making it the first Asian nation to do so.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/thailand-to-tighten-cannabis-rules-after-6-000-weed-shops-open-1.1998875|title=Thailand to Tighten Cannabis Rules After 6,000 Weed Shops Open|website=BNN Bloomberg|access-date=2023-12-09}}</ref> The cannabis sector could be worth up to $1.2 billion by next year, according to the estimate by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harinderan |first=K. |date=2024-03-16 |title=Thailand's Flourishing Cannabis Culture To End As Government Seeks Ban - BusinessToday |url=https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2024/03/16/thailands-flourishing-cannabis-culture-to-end-as-government-seeks-ban/ |access-date=2024-03-17 |website=businesstoday.com|language=en-US}}</ref>



<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Cannabis in Thailand 20221127 101147.jpg|Medical cannabis dispensary clinic in Thailand in 2022.
File:Cannabis in Thailand 20221127 101147.jpg|Medical cannabis dispensary clinic in Thailand in 2022.
File:Cannabis in Thailand 20221221 202822.jpg|Cannabis bar in Thailand in 2022. Selling of cannabis to minors (< 20 years old) or pregnant women is prohibited by the decree from the Ministry of Health.
File:Cannabis in Thailand 20221221 202822.jpg|Cannabis bar in Thailand in 2022.
File:Cannabis in Thailand 20230102 114340.jpg|Cannabis edibles sold in a cannabis store in Thailand in 2023. For edibles, [[Cannabidiol|CBD]] is fully allowed but [[Tetrahydrocannabinol|THC]] is not allowed more than 0.2% by weight.
File:Cannabis in Thailand 20230102 114340.jpg|Cannabis edibles sold in a supermarket in Thailand in 2023.
File:Cannabis-shop Thailand IMG20230422234023.jpg|Cannabis shop and bar in Chaweng, Koh Samui, Thailand.
File:Cannabis-shop Thailand IMG20230422234023.jpg|Cannabis shop and bar in Chaweng, Koh Samui, Thailand.
File:Cannabis-shop Thailand IMG20230423001411.jpg|"Copper Pipe", Cannabis shop in Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand.
File:Cannabis-shop Thailand IMG20230423001411.jpg|"Copper Pipe", Cannabis shop in Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand.
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[[Category:Drug policy of Thailand]]
[[Category:Drug policy of Thailand]]
[[Category:Cannabis by country|Thailand]]
[[Category:Cannabis by country|Thailand]]
[[Category:Cannabis in Asia|Thailand]]

Latest revision as of 16:25, 17 September 2024

Cannabis in Thailand
Location of Thailand (dark green)
MedicinalLegal
RecreationalLegal
SpiritualLegal
HempLegal
Bottles of cannabis-infused drink on a "healthy drink" shelf of a convenience store in Bangkok, photo taken in 2023

In Thailand, cannabis, known by the name Ganja (Thai: กัญชา; RTGSkancha) has recently had new laws passed through. Cannabis that has less than 0.2% THC, referred to as industrial hemp in USA, was legalised on 9 June 2022. Medicinal cannabis, with no THC restrictions, was made legal in 2018 but required patients to obtain a prescription from a medical practitioner. Recreational cannabis is still illegal[citation needed] according to Thai law.

Possession, cultivation, distribution, consumption, and sales of all cannabis plant parts are legal, as long as it is operated under the two laws. Cannabis extracts and cannabis products (including edibles, food supplements, cosmetics, etc.) containing more than 0.2% THC by dry weight are still categorised as a Category 5 narcotic.

Import and export of cannabis are still highly regulated.

Sales of cannabis plant parts, products, and edibles are prohibited to minors (under 20-years-old), pregnant women, and breastfeeding women. Cannabis smoke is considered a public nuisance and thus prohibited in public areas.[1][2]

On 8 May 2022, Thailand's health minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced in a Facebook post that the government will distribute one million free cannabis plants to households across the country, starting on the 9 June. The move is said to be a step further into Thailand's plan to use cannabis as a cash crop.[3][4]

History

[edit]

Cannabis appears to have been introduced to Thailand from India, with the similarity of the Thai name to the Indian term ganja cited as evidence.[5] Cannabis has historically been used in Southeast Asia as an ingredient, a kitchen condiment, a medicine, and a source of fiber.[6] Laborers were known to use it as a muscle relaxer. It was reportedly used to ease women's labor pains.[7]

Laws

[edit]
Packages of drumstick-shaped chips claiming to "contain cannabis leaves" sold at a supermarket in Bangkok

The possession, cultivation, sale, and use of cannabis were criminalised by the Cannabis Act 2477 BE (1935)[8] and again by the Narcotics Act 2522 BE (1979).

In 2018, Thailand became the first Asian nation to legalize medical cannabis.[9][10]

Although medicinal cannabis was decriminalised, consumption, in particular smoking or vaping in public places is still subject to punishment under the Public Health Act 2535 BE (1992) as a public nuisance infraction and can lead to a 25,000 Baht fine.[11][12][13]

Cannabis dispensaries were available as early as April 2022.[14]

On 9 June 2022, cannabis extracts containing less than 0.2% THC, referred to as industrial hemp, were decriminalised.

Medicinal cannabis, with no THC restrictions, was made legal in 2018 but required patients to obtain a prescription from a medical practitioner.

Recreational cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, is still illegal according to Thai law.[citation needed] Cannabis extracts and cannabis products (including edibles, food supplements, cosmetics, etc.) containing more than 0.2% THC by dry weight are still categorised as a Category 5 narcotic.

Around 4,200 prisoners were released as a result of the decriminalisation on the same day.[15]

Regulations

[edit]

Age

[edit]

The minimum age to buy, possess and use cannabis in Thailand is 20-years-old.[16][17][18]

Consumption

[edit]

Cannabis smoking is legal for personal use in private areas but prohibited in public areas by the Public Health Act 2535 BE (1992) with the fine being up to 25,000 Baht (~US$700) and or imprisonment for up to 3 months.[15]

Cannabis is illegal for possession and use by those who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding, with an exception being granted if they can prove they have the permission of a doctor.[17][18]

Medicinal cannabis

[edit]

Medical cannabis products, including oils and tinctures, with over 0.2% THC requires a prescription for use.[1][2] This includes consumption by smoking or vaping.

Recreational cannabis

[edit]

Recreational cannabis, often referred to as 'recreational marijuana' or 'marijuana', has become legal under Thai Law.[citation needed]

Industrial Hemp

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Cannabis or hemp extracts containing less than 0.2% THC is allowed without any restrictions. The most common CBD products are oils, tinctures, gummies, lotions and balms.

Cannabis extracts

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Cannabis extracts, including Hash are still considered a Category 5 narcotic as long as they contain over 0.2% THC. On 9 February 2024 it was announced in the Royal Gazette that the possession of more than 30 grams or 30 milliliters is considered as an intent to distribute. [19]

Cultivation

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In order to cultivate cannabis, individuals must register with the country's Food and Drug Administration.[20] There are currently no restrictions on how many plants each individual can cultivate. The specific law regulating cannabis is still pending in Thai parliament as of 2023. However, the government urges people to register their cannabis plantation on the website or the application "Plookganja" (meaning "to plant cannabis") in case that the future cannabis law may require the license.[21]

Supply

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Thai law essentially excludes all foreign companies as well as foreign majority companies incorporated in Thailand from producing, selling, importing, exporting, and processing cannabis. The move has been viewed as an effort to protect local companies from the onslaught of highly resourceful and modern technology equipped foreign actors, however "imported" strains are widely available and dominated the market.[22][23]

Distribution

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Thailand's first two full-time clinics dispensing cannabis oil for medical treatment were inaugurated in January 2020.[24] The move is in line with the government's intentions to promote licensed use of medical marijuana to address various health conditions. These two clinics are an addition to 25 part-time clinics that are operating since the legalisation of the drug under the new legislation.[25] If this experience produces promising results, the government is all set to open two more clinics as a part of a planned nationwide network of marijuana clinics.[26] The people who were using illegal expensive medical marijuana from underground suppliers are most likely to benefit from it. In addition, the FDA has approved all hospitals of the Public Health Ministry to prescribe medical cannabis to people with approved medical conditions.[27][28] As of 2023, Thailand has over 6,400 approved cannabis dispensaries, reflecting a significant expansion of access to medical cannabis in the country.[29] This expansion is part of Thailand's broader strategy to integrate cannabis into healthcare and leverage its potential economic benefits. To legally operate a cannabis dispensary in Thailand, businesses must obtain relevant licenses, including a Cannabis distribution license from the FDA for selling cannabis flowers or leaves. The establishment of a Thai Limited Company with the majority of shares owned by Thai nationals is also required.

Current situation

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In Thailand, the government is taking measures to tighten regulations around the country's emerging cannabis industry, particularly to limit its recreational use. This action includes the submission of a revised cannabis bill to the Cabinet, proposed for December 2023. This bill aims to address loopholes in marijuana usage, establish new guidelines for cultivation, and introduce criminal penalties. This move follows Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's commitment to restrict cannabis use primarily for medical purposes, a response to the rapid opening of numerous cannabis shops across Thailand following its decriminalization, making it the first Asian nation to do so.[30] The cannabis sector could be worth up to $1.2 billion by next year, according to the estimate by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce.[31]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Notifications of the Ministry of Health Re : Specifying the Category V Narcotic Substance 2565 BE (2022 AD)" (PDF). Royal Thai Government Gazette. 8 February 2022. Archived from the original (PDF) on 20 April 2022. Retrieved 10 June 2022.
  2. ^ a b "Act Promulgating the Narcotic Code 2564 BE (2021 AD)" (PDF). Royal Thai Government Gazette. 7 November 2021. Archived from the original (PDF) on 25 June 2022. Retrieved 10 June 2022.
  3. ^ "Thailand to give away one million free cannabis plants to households, minister says". KMIZ. 11 May 2022. Archived from the original on 30 June 2022. Retrieved 11 May 2022.
  4. ^ "Explained: Why Thailand will distribute 1 million cannabis plants to households". The Indian Express. 12 May 2022. Archived from the original on 16 May 2022. Retrieved 16 May 2022 – via Yahoo! News.
  5. ^ Martin, Marie Alexandrine (January 1975). "Ethnobotanical Aspects of Cannabis in Southeast Asia". In Rubin, Vera (ed.). Cannabis and Culture. Mouton Publishers. pp. 63–76. ISBN 9027976694. Retrieved 12 December 2018.
  6. ^ Blair, Eric (11 July 2001). "History of Marijuana Use and Anti-Marijuana Laws in Thailand". Thailand Law Forum. Archived from the original on 4 June 2019. Retrieved 12 December 2018.
  7. ^ Kapoor, Kanupriya; Thepgumpanat, Panarat (12 December 2018). "Weeding out foreigners: strains over Thailand's legalization of marijuana". Reuters. Archived from the original on 12 December 2018. Retrieved 12 December 2018.
  8. ^ "พระราชบัญญัติกันชา พุทธศักราช ๒๔๗๗" (PDF). Royal Thai Government Gazette. 52: 339–343. 5 May 1935. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 October 2018. Retrieved 6 December 2016.
  9. ^ "Thailand approves medical marijuana in New Year's 'gift'". Nikkei Asia. Archived from the original on 13 December 2021. Retrieved 2 April 2021.
  10. ^ "Thailand's Unlikely Embrace of Cannabis". Bloomberg.com. 18 July 2019. Archived from the original on 24 April 2021. Retrieved 2 April 2021 – via www.bloomberg.com.
  11. ^ "Thailand gives green light to growing cannabis at home". Reuters. 25 January 2022. Archived from the original on 16 May 2022. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  12. ^ "Is Weed Legal in Thailand? - Weed Thailand". 18 May 2022. Archived from the original on 8 July 2022. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  13. ^ Root, Rebecca (9 January 2023). "Consuming cannabis in Thailand: what tourists need to know about marijuana rules". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 20 June 2023.
  14. ^ "Cannabis US company opens medical marijuana clinic in Thailand". Archived from the original on 26 April 2022. Retrieved 27 April 2022.
  15. ^ a b "ปลดล็อกกัญชา 9 มิ.ย.นี้ ทำอะไรได้แค่ไหน สายเขียวปุ๊นในที่สาธารณะได้หรือไม่". ไทยรัฐ. 12 June 2022. Archived from the original on 12 June 2022. Retrieved 12 June 2022.
  16. ^ "Thailand issues regulations on cannabis, forbidding public smoking and use by minors". ABC News (Australia). 17 June 2022. Retrieved 24 June 2023.
  17. ^ a b Bush, Austin (30 August 2022). "Cannabis is now legal in Thailand, but it's complicated: what travelers need to know". Lonely Planet. Retrieved 24 June 2023.
  18. ^ a b Root, Rebecca (9 January 2023). "Consuming cannabis in Thailand: what tourists need to know about marijuana rules". The Guardian. Bangkok. Retrieved 24 June 2023.
  19. ^ "New regulations on cannabis extracts - HighThailand". 10 February 2024. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  20. ^ Root, Rebecca (9 January 2023). "Consuming cannabis in Thailand: what tourists need to know about marijuana rules". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 20 June 2023.
  21. ^ "Plookganja.fda.moph.go.th". Food and Drug Administration of Thailand. Archived from the original on 11 June 2022. Retrieved 12 June 2022.
  22. ^ Thepgumpanat, Kanupriya Kapoor, Panarat (12 December 2018). "Weeding out foreigners: strains over Thailand's legalization of marijuana". Reuters. Archived from the original on 13 December 2021. Retrieved 2 April 2021 – via www.reuters.com.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  23. ^ Sabaghi, Dario. "Thailand's Election Results May Reverse Cannabis Policy". Forbes. Retrieved 27 June 2023.
  24. ^ "Thailand launches full-time clinics dispensing cannabis oil". AP News. Associated Press. 6 January 2020. Retrieved 22 August 2023.
  25. ^ "Inside Thailand's free cannabis clinic". France 24. 6 January 2020. Archived from the original on 13 December 2021. Retrieved 2 April 2021.
  26. ^ Setboonsarng, Chayut (6 January 2020). "Thailand rolls out cannabis clinic based on traditional medicine". Reuters. Archived from the original on 13 May 2021. Retrieved 2 April 2021 – via www.reuters.com.
  27. ^ Somerset, Sara Brittany. "Thai Cannabis Clinic Sees Thousands Of Patients In Its First Week". Forbes. Archived from the original on 13 December 2021. Retrieved 2 April 2021.
  28. ^ "Can medical cannabis in Thailand balance profits and patients?". Archived from the original on 14 May 2021. Retrieved 14 May 2021.
  29. ^ "State of Industry: Thailand's Cannabis Market". Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  30. ^ "Thailand to Tighten Cannabis Rules After 6,000 Weed Shops Open". BNN Bloomberg. Retrieved 9 December 2023.
  31. ^ Harinderan, K. (16 March 2024). "Thailand's Flourishing Cannabis Culture To End As Government Seeks Ban - BusinessToday". businesstoday.com. Retrieved 17 March 2024.