Are you traveling to Thailand? Here’s what you should know about the country’s weed laws

Earlier this month, Thailand became the first Asian country to decriminalize marijuana. The news is huge and has many thinking about adding a new location to their cannabis travel map.

Still, there are a few things weed enthusiasts should keep in mind when considering a trip to Thailand.

In 2018, Thailand legalized the medicinal use of cannabis. In January of this year, it legalized home growing and even gave away one million cannabis plants to residents to encourage home growing. For tourists, the issue is more complicated.

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While decriminalization in general means that people are no longer punished for something, the problem with cannabis use in Thailand is much more complex.

Like residents of Thailand, tourists are allowed to use cannabis if it has a medicinal purpose. You can also buy cannabis-infused products from cafes and restaurants as long as they have less than 0.2% THC. When it comes to smoking weed for fun, the Thai government has made it clear that recreational use remains illegal.

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Thai Health Minister Anutin Charnviraku spoke to CNN and clarified that cannabis should only be used with medicinal intent. Speaking about recreational cannabis, he said, “Don’t come. We do not welcome you if you come to this country for this purpose alone.”

People caught smoking recreationally face fines of up to $800 and up to three months in prison. Still, authorities state that possession of cannabis does not result in imprisonment, but it should be something tourists should keep in mind if planning to travel there.

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Despite the government’s stance on marijuana, there are still ways medical cannabis could bring revenue to Thailand. The country is a hotspot for wellness and medical tourism, meaning it could benefit from medicinal cannabis on a national and international scale.