Thailand Cabinet Approves Bill to Restrict Cannabis to Medical Use

The Cabinet of Thailand approved draft legislation on September 22 to tighten control over the national cannabis industry, accelerating a reversal of the 2022 decriminalization policy. The new bill strengthens government oversight of cultivation and processing while increasing penalties for violations.

Under the proposed rules, growers must register the size and location of their plantations to allow the government to trace the product from cultivation to sale. Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat stated that over 10,000 shops and sites are already in a government tracking system, and any facilities not registered will be presumed to be operating illegally.

Existing dispensary licenses will expire in stages through 2028. To remain operational, businesses must transition into licensed medical facilities that employ qualified practitioners on site. This policy shift restricts cannabis primarily to medical use, reversing the decriminalization efforts previously championed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Bhumjaithai Party.