Cannabis Re-Criminalization in Thailand: A Policy U-Turn
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has declared that cannabis will once again be classified as a controlled substance under national narcotics laws. This policy change rolls back the landmark 2022 decision that decriminalized cannabis for general use, making Thailand the first country in Asia to do so. That policy shift had catalyzed explosive growth in the country’s cannabis industry, but the new regulation signals an abrupt end to that era.
Under the revised policy, cannabis will only be permitted for medicinal purposes, and only with a prescription from a licensed physician. All forms of recreational use will be outlawed. The change will take effect upon publication in the Royal Gazette, a formal legal step expected in the coming days.
Disruption of a Rapidly Growing Industry
Since 2022, Thailand’s cannabis sector had flourished, with more than 8,000 dispensaries and cannabis-related businesses emerging nationwide. Many of these were concentrated in tourist destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, where both domestic and international demand drove strong growth.
Industry analysts had projected the market’s value to reach $1.2 billion in 2025. However, the government’s sudden reversal has cast a shadow over that growth trajectory. Business owners now face the possibility of closure or major restructuring, particularly those who relied on sales for recreational consumption.
Entrepreneurs have voiced frustration over the lack of clarity and consistency in the government’s regulatory approach. With licenses issued under the previous framework and significant capital investments made, many are now left uncertain about the legal standing of their operations.
Political Dynamics Behind the Policy Shift
The decision to re-criminalize cannabis comes amid political turbulence in Thailand. The Bhumjaithai Party, which spearheaded the original legalization effort, recently exited the ruling coalition over disagreements related to foreign policy. With their political influence diminished, momentum behind cannabis liberalization has weakened.
Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, who announced the policy reversal, cited escalating concerns over unregulated use and youth exposure as the primary motivations. Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub emphasized a need to restore the original intent of the 2022 policy—controlled, medical-only cannabis use.
Mounting Public Health Concerns
The initial decriminalization led to what critics have called a “green free-for-all,” as a lack of regulatory enforcement allowed widespread recreational use, including among underage individuals. There has also been a reported increase in cannabis-related incidents, including hospital visits and instances of misuse.
Government officials claim the return to strict medical regulation is necessary to address growing health risks and societal impacts. They argue that Thailand’s regulatory framework was not adequately prepared for the pace of industry expansion and recreational use that followed decriminalization.
Implications for the Future of Cannabis in Asia
Thailand’s retreat from cannabis liberalization carries broader implications for cannabis policy across Asia. The country had been viewed as a trailblazer in the region, potentially setting a precedent for other nations exploring reform. This reversal, however, could signal caution to neighboring countries considering similar moves.
Despite the setback, advocates for cannabis reform in Thailand hope for a more regulated, evidence-based framework in the future. Many are calling for legislation that clearly distinguishes between medical and recreational use while providing consistent rules for licensing, quality control, and enforcement.
A Precarious Path Forward
As the new policy takes effect, the immediate future of Thailand’s cannabis industry hangs in the balance. Stakeholders are seeking guidance on how the regulations will be enforced and whether any transitional measures will be offered to affected businesses.
What remains clear is that the re-criminalization marks a decisive end to Thailand’s brief experiment with open cannabis use. Whether this policy shift will bring stability or further uncertainty will depend on how the government balances enforcement with economic and healthcare considerations moving forward.
