Thailand returns cannabis -tendrimalization: prescription access returns in the middle of tourism concerns

Thailand abruptly reversed his cannabis reform of 2022, which was once celebrated in Southeast Asia control persons and only prescription access to non-regulated use and exposure of young people.

Back tracking after brave reform

In 2022, Thailand was the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis and opened access to the leisure activities. Over 18,000 shops nationwide. An order in June 2025 is now resumed as an narcotics, which limits the sale exclusively to medical pharmacies and is required to regulate licensed doctors.

Politically motivated shift

The guideline-U-Turn follows the step of the Pheu Thai party towards the narrow drug laws after the Bhumjaithai party left the government coalition in mid-June, and the government freed the government to react to its promise to limit cannabis to medical use.

Tourism endangered

The cannabis boom attracted travelers who were looking for weed-friendly holidays. With shops and festivals that appear in Bangkok, Phuket and Pai, some regions can be exposed to setbacks when tourists lose access. Australia's travel advice already warns visitors after the new restrictions.

Economic and industry effects

The Thailand's cannabis sector – on which 1.8 billion US dollars was expected to be achieved – is braces for a downturn. Small pharmacies and farmers warn that strict licensing and prescription mandates will bring many out of business and send consumers underground ().

Protection of public health and youth

The Thai authorities cite increasing use of youth, search rates and smuggling that are bound by tourism. Violations of the new rules are up to 20,000 baht up to one year in prison and fines. Followers argue that the reform for the balance of public health is of essential importance.

Activist counter reactions and protests ahead

The “writing of Thailand's cannabis future network” and other representative groups have sworn to protest on July 7, and described the move as a political power game that will damage the legitimacy of the sector.