Thailand Not Welcoming Recreational Cannabis Tourists
Although Thailand has legalized medical and industrial cannabis, the country is not welcoming tourists who are interested in recreational cannabis use. However, this stance may change significantly in the future.
Thailand Asks Recreational Cannabis Users Not to Visit
On August 17, Thailand’s Minister of Public Health, Anutin Charnvirakul, participated in a press conference where journalists asked about his attitude toward foreigners who use cannabis for fun. The official responded, “We do not welcome such tourists.”
In early June, the Thai government allowed the use, processing, and cultivation of cannabis with up to 0.2% THC in unlimited quantities. According to a public opinion poll, 70.63% of Thai citizens are concerned about the negative consequences of this drug policy reform. To reassure the public, Charnvirakul has repeatedly emphasized that cannabinoids should only be used for medical purposes. Therefore, his statement about recreational cannabis tourists did not surprise anyone.
Anutin noted that smoking marijuana can result in a fine of up to 25,000 baht (about $700) or imprisonment for up to three months. Nevertheless, dozens of cannabis cafes operate in Thailand, where people can smoke joints in specially equipped rooms. This paradox exists because marijuana smoking is considered a public offense, punishable only if someone files a complaint.
Minister Does Not Rule Out Future Legalization of Recreational Cannabis
Despite his negative stance toward visiting cannabis enthusiasts, Charnvirakul acknowledged the possibility of lifting the ban on recreational cannabis in the future. He stated, “At the moment, we do not promote recreational cannabis use in Thailand, but this will not always be the case. Maybe we will lift the ban when people understand how to use cannabinoids safely and properly.”
Recently, more than 850 Thai doctors demanded that cannabis be criminalized again, citing the harm cannabinoids can cause to young people’s health. However, Anutin refuted claims about the negative impact of cannabis legalization, reporting that in the two months since the ban on industrial cannabis was lifted, only 60 people sought medical help for cannabis poisoning. This is an extremely small number, considering Thailand’s population of 70 million.
Anutin’s position was supported by Thai Parliament member Supachai Jaisamut. Even before the law legalizing industrial cannabis took effect, he expressed confidence that Thais would be wise enough not to abuse cannabis.