Friday, June 20, 2025
Thailand’s burgeoning cannabis industry, particularly in the popular tourist destination of Phuket, has sparked significant concern among tourists and families. Once celebrated for its pristine beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, Phuket is now facing scrutiny for its rising reputation as a recreational cannabis hub, with nearly 1,500 cannabis shops proliferating throughout the island.
The Cannabis Surge: An Economic Shift
Since Thailand became the first Asian country to legalize cannabis in 2022, the expansion of marijuana-related businesses has been dramatic. With an estimated 1,495 licensed cannabis outlets now operating across Phuket’s three main districts, residents and visitors alike are voicing unease over the implications of this rapid commercialization.
- Muang District: 752 cannabis stores
- Kathu District: 520 cannabis shops
- Thalang District: 223 establishments
In tourist hubs like Patong Beach, the visibility of cannabis products has become a defining characteristic, rivaling traditional tourist offerings. This reality has raised pressing questions about the future of family tourism in Phuket.
Public Safety and Health Concerns
Despite the decriminalization of cannabis, concerns multiply regarding its impact on public health and safety. Residents report rising instances of cannabis consumption in public areas, including beaches, sidewalks, and near hotels. Parents are particularly alarmed by the sale of cannabis-infused edibles—like cookies and gummies—often lacking adequate warning labels or dosage instructions, raising the risk of accidental consumption among children.
> “Parents are worried about children inadvertently consuming these products, especially when they’re marketed like regular snacks,” expressed a concerned local parent.
The Tourism Industry’s Response
Phuket’s tourism sector, long reliant on its family-friendly image, is beginning to face reputational damage. Travel agents worldwide have reported increasing hesitancy from families seeking safe vacation environments. Many families are opting for alternative Southeast Asian destinations—like Bali or Vietnam—where recreational drug use is either strictly regulated or culturally discouraged.
An emergency meeting involving local tourism officials has prompted discussions about implementing more stringent regulations to restore Phuket’s appeal as a family destination. Recommendations have included:
- Establishing designated cannabis zones away from family-friendly areas.
- Implementing age verification at all cannabis retail locations.
- Ensuring clear warning labels and child-proof packaging for all edible products.
- Banning public consumption in tourist-heavy districts.
- Launching community programs to educate both tourists and locals about safe cannabis practices.
Striking a Balance Between Innovation and Reputation
While the cannabis market offers economic benefits, it also poses risks to Thailand’s long-standing reputation as a family-oriented tourist destination. The unregulated growth of cannabis shops is causing a shift in perception, as Phuket is increasingly viewed as a cannabis capital rather than a paradise for families.
Without coherent national guidelines, regions like Phuket can create inconsistent visitor experiences and potential harm to Thailand’s global image.
A Call for National Regulations
As other key tourist destinations in Thailand—like Bangkok and Chiang Mai—also experience a rise in cannabis-related tourism, the need for comprehensive national legislation becomes even more urgent. The expectation is for clear restrictions that guide recreational use and sales.
Despite the immediate economic injection from the cannabis sector, long-term stability for Thailand’s tourism hinges on aligning economic opportunity with the nation’s core identity as a welcoming and safe travel destination.
Moving Toward Responsible Tourism
Thailand finds itself at a crossroads, similar to other countries that have embraced cannabis legalization. The focus should be on integrating cannabis into the tourism narrative responsibly. This means:
- Treating cannabis similarly to alcohol and tobacco—legal but strictly controlled.
- Maintaining visibility while ensuring public welfare.
- Creating a productive environment for diverse tourists, from solo adventurers to family groups.
The controversy surrounding cannabis in Phuket reflects a critical juncture in Thailand’s tourism strategy. As authorities collaborate with tourism stakeholders to establish meaningful and effective reforms, they must ensure that economic growth doesn’t compromise the fundamental values that have made Thailand a cherished destination. Immediate action is required to safeguard not just the island’s reputation, but the broader appeal of Thailand as a whole.
