Explainer: Is Cannabis Still Legal in Thailand?

In 2018, Thailand made headlines as the first Southeast Asian country to legalize medical cannabis. This was a significant move in a region known for its strict drug laws, allowing cannabis to be prescribed by licensed professionals for medical purposes.
Four years later, Thailand took a further step by decriminalizing cannabis entirely, permitting individuals to grow a limited number of cannabis plants at home, provided they registered with the government.
While Thailand is progressive in its approach to cannabis, the situation remains complex, particularly regarding regulations for recreational use, production, and distribution.
If you're curious about cannabis culture in Thailand, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to guide you through the country's cannabis laws. With the Thai government planning to ban recreational cannabis use by the end of 2024, staying informed about the evolving regulations is crucial.
What is Cannabis?
Known for its psychoactive properties, cannabis is a plant that has captured the attention of cultures around the world. It has active compounds known as cannabinoids, the most famous of which is tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, which is responsible for its “high.”
Also known as marijuana or weed, cannabis also contains cannabidiol (CBD), which is known to be non-intoxicating and popular for its therapeutic benefits.
Is Cannabis Still Legal in Thailand?
Yes, cannabis is legal in Thailand, primarily for medical use. An amendment to the Narcotics Act on February 19, 2019 allowed the limited medical use of cannabis while a major milestone came on June 9, 2022 when the Thai government officially decriminalized cannabis by removing it and hemp from the narcotics list.
This change allowed the cultivation, possession, and trade of cannabis, especially for medical purposes, without requiring a license for products with less than 0.2% THC.
However, as of 2024, the government has taken steps to recriminalize the recreational use of cannabis in the country.
What are the Restrictions on Cannabis Use?
Individuals must be at least 20 years old to use cannabis while pregnant and breastfeeding women are prohibited from using cannabis unless prescribed by a doctor. Smoking cannabis in public is prohibited and doing so can result in fines or imprisonment.
Can Individuals Cultivate Cannabis?
It is legal but they need to register with the Food and Drug Administration to cultivate cannabis legally.
Can Tourists Use Cannabis in Thailand?
Tourists can legally use cannabis in private, but they must follow the same regulations as locals. Foreign visitors cannot consume cannabis in public and must follow restrictions on age and health conditions.

Are there Products or Services Related to Cannabis that are Available in Thailand?
Edibles and other cannabis-infused products are available in licensed establishments. The sale of these products is regulated and unlicensed sales are illegal.
What are the Cannabis Violations in Thailand and the Penalty for Each?
The penalties differ depending on the violation. Smoking cannabis in public can incur fines of up to THB25,000 while possessing cannabis extracts containing more than 0.2% THC is illegal and may result in fines and imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense.
Other violations include recreational use, illegal sales and marketing, cultivation without permission, and transporting cannabis. Each of these violations has a corresponding fine (from THB20,000 to THB100,000) to possible imprisonment.

What’s the Latest Update on the Plan to Ban the Recreational Use of Cannabis by the End of 2024?
Due to growing public concern over the growth of cannabis shops and risks associated with recreational use, the Thai government is moving forward with plans to ban cannabis recreational use by the end of 2024.
Developments include the approval of the Health Ministry Drug Control Committee to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic. The next step would be for the Office of the Narcotics Control Board to approve as well and if approved, the reclassification will take effect on January 1, 2025. This affirms the government’s commitment to restricting cannabis for medical use.
How can Individuals Stay Informed on the Developments Regarding Cannabis Legality in Thailand?
For the latest updates on cannabis legality in Thailand as well as on the latest regulations concerning cannabis, individuals can check government sites and official sources such as the Thai Food and Drug Administration, the Ministry of Public Health, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, and the Royal Gazette.
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