After rapid expansion, Thai government restricts cannabis commercialization to channels with medical and sanitary supervision

Thailand closed over 7,000 establishments linked to cannabis sales in 2025, in a market contraction move following stricter rules adopted by the government. The reduction is mainly associated with the expiration of licenses that were not renewed and the implementation of measures aimed at concentrating sales in channels with sanitary supervision.

According to Canamo website, official data indicates that as of December 28, 2025, the country had 18,433 cannabis-related establishments. Throughout the year, 8,636 licenses expired, but only 1,339 were renewed, around 15.5%. Another 7,297 did not start the renewal process, reducing the number of authorized sales points to approximately 11,136.

From rapid expansion to regulatory tightening

The current scenario contrasts with the rapid expansion observed after the decriminalization of cannabis in 2022. During that period, the absence of comprehensive legislation favored the significant growth of dispensaries, especially in Bangkok and tourist regions.

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However, in mid-2025, the government began imposing new requirements, such as the mandatory need for a medical prescription to purchase cannabis and strengthening traceability rules and proof of origin of flowers, aiming to contain sales outside the established standards.

New rules for sales and operation

According to the publication, a regulation project already approved by the Cabinet and under legal review establishes that cannabis sales will be restricted to establishments recognized by law, such as medical centers, pharmacies, herbal stores, and traditional medicine clinics. The presentation of a medical prescription becomes a basic requirement, and dispensing must be done by properly identified and authorized professionals.

The text also defines operational standards, including measures for odor and vapor control, requirements related to property ownership or right to use the property, and specific storage regulations, such as separation to avoid contamination, temperature and humidity control, protection against sunlight, and prohibition of keeping products directly on the floor. Additionally, it stipulates that at least one person per shift must have official training from the Department of Traditional and Alternative Medicine.

With the new guidelines, the Thai government seeks to reorganize a market that grew rapidly after decriminalization, establishing clearer rules for the medicinal use of cannabis and for activity oversight.

With information from Canamo.Net.