Thailand unveils new cannabis guidelines
A guide titled “10 Things Tourists Need to Know about Cannabis in Thailand” has been released by the Ministry of Public Health in an effort to raise awareness of how cannabis can be used in Thailand.
On June 9, 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia to legalize marijuana after the Thai government removed it from the drug control list. Narong Apikulwanit, deputy permanent secretary at the Ministry of Health, said the change had led to a surge of interest in cannabis commodities among some tourists and would-be immigrants.
Since the legalization of marijuana took effect on June 9, 2022, lawmakers have been deliberating on the enactment of the Marijuana and Hemp Act to regulate the use and sale of marijuana, but have yet to reach a conclusion, resulting in a “legal vacuum.”
During the legal vacuum, the number of marijuana clinics, drug offices, and related recreational establishments such as restaurants and bars has increased dramatically.
Public Health Minister Anutin stressed that the legalization of marijuana is to promote its medical use and create economic opportunities for local people, and that foreigners who want to come to Thailand for a “high” should think twice.
In the meantime, the health ministry wants visitors to be aware of what the law allows, so that individuals do not break the rules. The ministry has also asked provincial tourism offices to distribute English brochures to visitors, with plans to provide Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Russian versions later.
10 things tourists need to know about cannabis in Thailand，The provisions are as follows:
- It is not permitted to carry hemp seeds or parts of hemp plants into or out of Thailand for personal purposes.
- The cultivation of cannabis is legal, but registration is required on the “Plook Ganja” action app set up by the Food and Drugs Board or through the Government website.
- Official permission is required to conduct research, export and sale of cannabis buds, as well as to process cannabis buds for commercial purposes.
- Persons under 20 years of age and pregnant or lactating women are not eligible to use cannabis unless under the supervision of a health professional.
- Possession of cannabis extract containing more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as well as synthetic THC, must be licensed.
- Authorized restaurants can serve dishes that contain marijuana.
- Tested and approved cannabis health products are available through specific channels.
- It is illegal to smoke marijuana in public places, including schools and shopping centers.
- Avoid driving after consuming food or health products containing marijuana.
- Persons with serious adverse health consequences caused by cannabis use should seek medical attention promptly.
