PUBLISHED: 20 Sep 2024 at 10:09
Thailand is set to introduce a groundbreaking bill aimed at reshaping its cannabis industry, focusing on health and medical applications in a bid to regulate recreational usage. This legislative move comes in the wake of a turbulent policy landscape surrounding cannabis over the past few years.
The draft legislation, recently unveiled by the Public Health Ministry, permits the use of cannabis and its extracts for medical treatment and research, as well as in herbal, food, and cosmetic products. This initiative follows the recent inauguration of the new administration under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
In a notable shift from previous governmental strategies, the current draft does not include a clause that outright bans recreational cannabis use—a departure from prior proposals that sought to reclassify cannabis as a “narcotic.” This indicates a softer regulatory approach from the new leadership.
However, the draft imposes significant penalties for non-compliance. Individuals consuming cannabis for unapproved purposes could face fines up to 60,000 baht, while sellers risk a jail term of up to one year or fines reaching 100,000 baht, or both.
As the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis in 2022, Thailand has experienced a surge in dispensaries, with over 9,400 established nationwide, particularly in tourist hotspots and urban districts. The accessibility of cannabis has fueled political discussions, particularly during last year’s national elections, with the ruling Pheu Thai Party initially signaling intentions to restrict cannabis use exclusively to medical purposes due to addiction concerns. Nevertheless, the ruling coalition’s dynamics have led the government to maintain the legal status of cannabis.
Compliance Challenges Ahead
The proposed bill includes stricter licensing regulations for cannabis cultivation, sales, exports, and imports. Existing growers and suppliers will need to secure new licenses to continue operating legally, facing severe consequences for non-compliance.
While the draft bill presents opportunities for the cannabis sector, it also introduces potential compliance hurdles for growers, dispensaries, and various consumer-oriented businesses selling cannabis-based products, which must adhere to strict THC limits.
Prasitchai Nunual, a pro-cannabis advocate, remarked on the revised bill, noting that while it aligns with practical applications of cannabis, it places undue reliance on licensed medical practitioners. He advocates for a framework that respects individual rights without excessive constraints imposed by medical approvals.
Stakeholders and the public are invited to submit their feedback on the proposed legislation by September 30, with the possibility of revisions before the final submission to the cabinet and subsequent parliamentary approval.
