Most Thais Worried About Cannabis Legalization

Researchers from Suan Dusit Rajabhat University in Bangkok conducted a study and found that most Thai residents are concerned about the consequences of the legalization of industrial cannabis, which took place on June 9.

Ending the Cannabis Ban May Do More Harm Than Good

Between June 20 and 23, university staff surveyed 2,390 Thais and discovered the following:

• 70.63% of respondents fear that cannabis legalization will negatively impact society;
• 16.27% are somewhat concerned about possible negative consequences of drug law reform;
• 13.10% are not worried about it;
• 52.76% believe that the drawbacks of lifting the cannabis ban will outweigh the benefits;
• 17.07% think legalization will bring more benefits than harm;
• 30.17% believe the positive and negative effects will balance each other out.

Supporters and Skeptics of Legalization

Thai supporters of cannabis legalization, some holding signs reading “Cannabis is not a drug,” say that lifting the ban will:

• Allow cannabis use for medical purposes;
• Reduce treatment costs for certain illnesses;
• Strengthen the economy.

On the other hand, skeptics are worried that liberalizing the law could increase recreational cannabis use and make it more popular among minors. To reduce these risks, respondents suggest stricter regulations on the cultivation, processing, and use of cannabis.

High Demand for Cannabis in Thailand

Despite widespread concern, cannabis is in high demand among Thais. At least 900,000 people (1.29% of the population) have registered on websites and apps for cannabis growers. According to a YouGov survey, 62% of Thais plan to use cannabis within the next year. Businesses have seized the opportunity, opening hundreds of cannabis shops across the country.

Government Response and New Restrictions

The government has responded to public opinion by imposing new restrictions. On June 17, a law took effect banning the sale of cannabis products containing cannabinoids to people under 20 and to pregnant women. Currently, citizens are allowed to grow any amount of cannabis, but lawmakers plan to introduce a rule limiting households to no more than 10 plants.

Additionally, on June 24, the Thai Ministry of Defense ordered military personnel to refrain from using cannabis on military premises and from posting photos with cannabis online. Nevertheless, the government continues its promotional campaign, planning to give away 1 million cannabis plants to Thais by the end of 2022.