Thailand’s Ministry of Health Proposes Bill to Restrict Recreational Cannabis Use

Recently, Thailand’s Ministry of Health introduced a bill that would ban the recreational use of cannabis, including smoking and other forms of consumption. Under the proposed law, cannabis use would be strictly limited to medical purposes.

Penalties for Violations

• Individuals caught using cannabis for recreational purposes could face fines of up to 60,000 baht (about $1,700).
• Sellers of cannabis and its derivatives could face up to one year in prison, a fine of 100,000 baht (about $2,600), or both.
• Driving under the influence of cannabis would result in a 20,000 baht fine (about $520).
• Advertising cannabis products would be prohibited.

Stricter Licensing and Public Feedback

The government also plans to tighten licensing regulations. Producers would be required to apply for a new license within 60 days of the law’s enactment.

The public and industry stakeholders are invited to submit feedback on the bill until January 23. The Ministry of Health may still make changes to the proposal before presenting it to the Cabinet, which will then send it to Parliament for approval.

Background

Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to decriminalize recreational cannabis in 2022. However, the lack of regulations led to a rapid increase in cannabis shops—now numbering around 6,500—operating with little oversight. This situation prompted the new government to reconsider the laws.