Thailand Considers Establishing Cannabis Tourism Zones
Recently, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to fully decriminalize the possession and use of marijuana. Now, Thai authorities have announced their interest in creating special zones to support cannabis tourism—specifically for therapeutic, not recreational, purposes.
This information was reported in the latest issue of the English-language magazine The Thaiger. According to the original article published earlier this week, representatives from the country’s health service, which also regulates the therapeutic marijuana market, discussed the possibility of opening cannabis tourism zones. The idea was reportedly proposed as a way to support the national economy during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has severely impacted Thailand’s tourism industry.
The agency suggests organizing special zones for therapeutic tourism, where adults aged 20 and over could legally purchase and use marijuana flowers and low-THC concentrates. Access to these products would be strictly limited to adults.
It’s worth noting that Thailand is also a regional leader in therapeutic reform. Currently, 60% of public hospitals and clinics in the country have departments specializing in cannabis medicine.
Business and Economic Potential
The local business community has actively lobbied the government in favor of legalizing cannabis tourism since the start of the therapeutic reform. Entrepreneurs highlight the enormous potential not only for exporting Thai cannabis products but also for attracting a new category of visitors seeking access to therapeutic marijuana and qualified cannabis medicine practices. Some businesses, such as the Petlana Organic Products Community, have already been offering private tours for interested cannabis tourists since last year.
Analysts estimate the value of Thailand’s current legal cannabis market at $237 million, noting that the industry has virtually unlimited potential for growth.
Growth of the Cannabis Industry
Since the start of the therapeutic reform a few years ago, a gray market for technical and therapeutic marijuana has flourished in Thailand. Small businesses in various provinces now offer traditional therapeutic infusions and extracts made from marijuana. Restaurants like Crazy Happy Pizza serve dishes infused with various parts of industrial marijuana, claiming they provide therapeutic or mild psychoactive effects. This business is now fully legal thanks to the complete decriminalization of marijuana. However, the creation of special tourist zones for cannabis tourists would undoubtedly boost the popularity and profitability of such establishments.