BANGKOK – In a significant policy change aimed at regulating cannabis use, Thailand is set to require medical certificates for the purchase of marijuana. This development comes three years after the country decriminalized cannabis, marking a pivotal shift in its approach to marijuana regulation.
Background on Cannabis Legalization in Thailand
Thailand has been a pioneer in Asia for decriminalizing marijuana, taking steps that many other countries in the region are still considering. However, the absence of clear regulations regarding sale, production, and usage led to a rapid surge of cannabis retailers. Particularly in bustling tourist areas like Bangkok and the well-known resort island of Phuket, shops selling cannabis have flourished, creating an unregulated market.
New Regulations: Focus on Medical Use
Somruek Chungsaman, head of the health ministry’s department of traditional and alternative medicine, announced that the upcoming regulation is expected to be implemented within 40 days. The goal is to ensure that cannabis is primarily used for medical purposes rather than recreational use. Chungsaman emphasized:
“Anyone who wants to buy cannabis flowers to smoke, Thai or foreign, must have a doctor’s prescription for medical use. We don’t want people saying they came to Thailand just to smoke cannabis. That gives a negative impression.”
What This Means for Consumers
The new requirement will have several implications for both Thai citizens and tourists:
- Medical Prescription Needed: All individuals, regardless of origin, will need a prescription from a qualified doctor to purchase cannabis.
- Focus on Medicinal Use: The regulation aims to shift the narrative from leisure to legitimate medicinal benefits associated with cannabis.
- Impact on Retail Businesses: Retailers may need to adapt their business models to comply with these new regulations.
Future of Cannabis in Thailand
While the move may tighten access to cannabis, it also seeks to establish a framework for safe and responsible usage. As other countries look toward Thailand as a model for cannabis policy, the success of these regulations may influence future legislation across Asia.
Thailand’s proactive approach aims to harness the medicinal benefits of cannabis while curbing its use as a casual recreational substance, ensuring responsible use that aligns with public health interests.
