Thailand: new cannabis regulation is not as bad as it seems
Despite the backlash, the Thai government did not criminalize the use of the plant, but initiated a regulatory transition focused on medicinal use
Published on 07/10/2025
The new guideline was presented on June 25 during a press conference by Thailand's Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin. Image: Canva Pro
The government of Thailand recently announced its intention to review cannabis legislation, aiming to limit the plant's use exclusively for medicinal purposes. The new guideline was presented on June 25 during a press conference by Thailand's Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin, held at the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine in Bangkok.
Thepsuthin met with representatives from the cannabis industry and small traders to announce the start of a regulatory transition, two years after the decriminalization of cannabis in the country.
Adult market boom and the need for regulation
Since legalization in 2022, there has been a rapid expansion of the cannabis industry, especially for adult use. Hundreds of dispensaries freely sell flowers with high THC levels without the need for a medical prescription.
Focus on medicinal use: what changes?
According to Thepsuthin, even if cannabis is reclassified as a narcotic in the future, it will not affect patients using the plant for medical purposes. The minister assured, "The government will fully support legitimate medical cannabis businesses."
He also stated that:
- Companies operating under the medical framework will not be penalized;
- License renewals will be required if the law changes;
- Legal actions against the government will not be accepted in case of reclassification.
Will cannabis be considered a narcotic again?
When asked about the possibility of reclassification, the minister replied, "Not yet. We need to observe the results of the new rules. If there is order, it stays as it is. But if chaos continues, it may be reclassified," he warned.
New rules for medicinal cannabis use
After the meeting, guidelines for cannabis regulation were defined. Here are the main points:
1. Transition to the medicinal use model:
- Mandatory prescription: every cannabis purchase must be accompanied by a valid medical prescription;
- Eligible conditions: stress, insomnia, anorexia nervosa, and other pathologies recognized by Thai doctors;
- Records and reports: dispensaries must keep records and send monthly reports to regulatory authorities.
2. Required quality standards:
- All dried flowers must be sold by licensed dispensaries;
- Required certifications: Thailand's GACP (Good Agricultural and Collection Practices);
- International standards, such as the EU's GACP, organic seals, and other quality certifications.
3. Regulatory framework and adaptation period
The Ministry of Public Health and the DTAM (Department of Traditional Medicine) agreed to temporarily suspend the criminalization of cannabis. The decision depends on the success of implementing the new rules within 60 days.
Companies and activists approve measures
Companies interviewed by CannaReporter® praised the proposal. Activists emphasize that home cultivation remains allowed, as long as it is for personal and medicinal use. Purchases in stores also continue, with a valid medical prescription issued in Thailand.
Article originally published by Laura Ramos on CannaReporter
