Thailand Cracks Down on Cannabis: Strict New Rules Target Flower Sales and Exports

Thailand is dramatically shifting its approach to the rapidly booming domestic cannabis industry. The government recently announced incredibly strict new controls targeting the sale and export of cannabis flowers. Officials have officially designated the popular cannabis plant as a "controlled herb." This sudden regulatory move signals a definitive end to the brief era of liberalization. The decision will have a significant impact on the industry that has rapidly developed in Thailand since cannabis was decriminalized in June 2022. Initially, cannabis was intended to be limited to medical use, but in reality, recreational use within the country became widespread, leading to the proliferation of many cannabis shops. The tightening of regulations will strictly limit the sale, export, and advertising of cannabis flowers. The government claims this measure is to protect the health and safety of the public, but concerns are also being raised by the industry. The impact on small and medium-sized enterprises and farmers who benefited from liberalization is particularly being watched. This regulatory change may also affect Thailand's tourism industry. The flow of some tourists seeking cannabis experiences might change. The government is indicating a policy to promote cannabis use in more controlled forms, such as medical tourism and health promotion.