BANGKOK, Thailand – The government has introduced a draft bill to regulate its cannabis industry, restricting marijuana use primarily to health and medical purposes. The proposed legislation, published by the Ministry of Public Health, permits the use of cannabis and its extracts for medical treatment, research, and in herbal, food, and cosmetic products. This marks the latest attempt to manage cannabis use following the country’s decision to decriminalize the plant in 2022.
The draft takes a softer stance compared to previous proposals, as it no longer includes an explicit ban on recreational cannabis use. It also signals that the new government has shelved plans to reclassify the plant as a narcotic. However, penalties remain in place for anyone consuming or selling cannabis for purposes not outlined in the bill, with fines of up to 60,000 baht and potential jail time for sellers.
While the proposed legislation seeks to control the unrestricted use of cannabis, it also introduces tighter licensing rules for cannabis cultivation, sales, imports, and exports. Businesses involved in the industry will be required to secure new licenses or face heavy fines and possible imprisonment. This could present compliance challenges for growers and dispensaries that have emerged since cannabis was decriminalized.
Public and industry stakeholders have until the end of September to submit feedback on the bill before it is presented to the cabinet. (NNT)
