BREAKING! New Law in Thailand Restricts Cannabis to Medical Use Only with Strict Prescription Rules
Thailand Cannabis: New cannabis controls also ban most smoking in shops and unauthorized sales of Cannabis or Cannabis Products.
In a major policy shift, Thailand has moved to tighten its cannabis laws after a period of loosely regulated usage that sparked controversy nationwide. Under the new rules signed by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, cannabis can now only be used for medical purposes—and only when prescribed by a licensed medical professional. This
Thailand Cannabis news report explores what the new laws mean for both local cannabis businesses and the general public, and why these changes are happening now.
New Law in Thailand Restricts Cannabis to Medical Use Only with Strict Prescription Rules
Smoking in Shops Now Heavily Restricted
One of the biggest changes under the new regulation is that cannabis smoking will no longer be allowed inside cannabis shops—unless it’s part of a medical treatment supervised by a licensed healthcare provider. This includes certified practitioners of Thai traditional medicine, Chinese medicine, and even dentists who may use cannabis therapeutically in treating certain patients.
Even in these medical cases, the amount of cannabis dispensed will be capped at a 30-day supply per prescription, reinforcing the government’s strict stance on limiting use to genuine health-related purposes.
No More Online Sales or Advertising
The regulation goes further by banning the sale of cannabis products through online platforms, vending machines, or any electronic networks. It also prohibits all advertising and promotional content involving cannabis or cannabis shops—regardless of the media channel used. This means no more sponsored articles or influencer posts on social media platforms promoting cannabis-related content.
All media outlets and individuals found violating these rules will face legal action. Authorities are also urging the public to report any unauthorized advertising or illegal sales to the appropriate government bodies.
There are several English-language media outlets and online forums in Thailand that are reportedly controlled by British-operated boiler room scam networks. Additionally, certain individuals with links to alleged human trafficking and the sex trade are also believed to be behind some of these media platforms. These media channels frequently promote or advertise cannabis shops and related products, often in violation of Thai laws. The public is strongly encouraged to remain vigilant and report any such activities or suspicious content to the appropriate Thai authorities.
Foreign Criminal Gangs Exploiting the Industry
Concerns over who really benefits from Thailand’s cannabis market have also influenced the new crackdown. While earlier policies claimed to support Thai farmers, in reality, many cannabis farms are reportedly run by foreign mafia groups from China, Israel, Russia, the UK, and the US.
Some local Thai-Punjabi syndicates with alleged links to money laundering, gambling operations, and political interference are also believed to be deeply involved in the business.
There are also some Thai-Punjabi groups who besides being involved in the food and restaurant business, are also heavily involved in the Cannabis business and are linked to political activists groups. Some of them are also involved in involved in money-laundering activities and illegal crypto exchanges.
In Chiang Mai and other northern provinces, Israeli nationals are reportedly operating cannabis farms that employ undocumented South American laborers. Similar situations have been observed in Phuket, where cannabis shops have drawn an influx of lower end foreign tourists and foreign junkies, driving away higher-spending, decent family-oriented visitors.
Political Roots of the Problem
Much of the cannabis confusion in Thailand began with a controversial policy push by a former minister linked to a certain political party.This initiative was reportedly fueled by heavy lobbying from close associates with vested financial interests in the cannabis industry. What was promoted as a move to boost the rural farming economy ended up opening the door for illegal operations and foreign control of large parts of the cannabis trade.
More Regulations on the Horizon
The new rules are expected to be officially enforced once they are published in the Royal Gazette. According to sources in the Ministry of Public Health, even tighter restrictions are being planned in the coming weeks and months to further clean up the cannabis sector and limit abuse.
In short, Thailand is reversing its earlier stance on cannabis liberalization and returning to a more controlled, health-focused framework. Whether this will succeed in curbing abuse and restoring order in the industry remains to be seen.
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Thailand Cannabis News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News
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