Thailand is on a mission to control its booming cannabis market. Recently, the government introduced new rules. Starting Wednesday, you will now need a doctor’s prescription to buy marijuana. This move aims to bring some order to an industry that many believe has spiraled out of control.
Since the decriminalization of cannabis in 2022, Thailand has seen a surge in dispensaries. There are now about 11,000 marijuana shops, especially noticeable in areas like Bangkok. The famous Khao San Road even has a mall selling cannabis-related products. Oddly enough, cannabis edibles like brownies and gummies are offered online, despite being illegal, and can arrive at your door within an hour.
The push for regulation is not new. Earlier this year, the ruling party suggested reinstating cannabis as a banned substance, but faced resistance from coalition partners who championed its legalization. Recently, increasing pressure from the UK has prompted the Thai government to reconsider. Smuggling has become a problem, with young travelers often caught carrying Thai cannabis to the UK.
In the past year, the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has been stepping up efforts to intercept smugglers. They reported intercepting 800 couriers carrying around 26 tons of cannabis in 2024, compared to 142 last year. Young individuals often see smuggling as a low-risk venture, but the consequences can be severe, with some facing lengthy prison sentences.
According to Beki Wright from the NCA, “If you bring illicit drugs into the UK, you might get through the first time, but you will eventually be caught.” In the current court year, 173 people accused of cannabis smuggling from Thailand have received sentences totaling 230 years. The NCA and Thai authorities are working together to deter this behavior, but the loose regulations in Thailand complicate things. As Panthong Loykulnanta from the Thai Customs Department notes, the penalties are often just a fine, making it appealing for smugglers.
The rise of foreign drug syndicates complicates the situation. They often operate under Thai names, growing high-quality cannabis in commercial settings. This has flooded the market, driving prices down and making smuggling more lucrative.
During a recent protest in Bangkok, local growers voiced their concerns. As Tom Kruesopon, an advocate for responsible cannabis use pointed out, “When there is a weed shop on every corner, other countries are being affected by our laws.” He believes the proposed regulations will help rein in the excess and refocus the industry on medicinal usage. However, many cannabis enthusiasts oppose this idea, fearing it will eliminate small businesses already struggling due to overproduction.
Kitty Chopaka, a small grower, echoed these concerns at a recent protest. “Countries are embarrassed about their weed getting smuggled in. But right now, they aren’t enforcing existing rules.” She added that many growers feel ignored as they continue to operate within the legal framework, yet face challenges from illegal competition.
As Thai customs officers work diligently to stop smuggling, they’re using intelligence to target potential smugglers more effectively. Despite their efforts, a large stash of confiscated cannabis continues to build up at airports, with officials recently discovering over two to three tons in just one month.
The path ahead for Thailand’s cannabis industry remains complicated. Local growers and government officials are wrestling with how to balance regulation and business needs while tackling the issues that have arisen since decriminalization.