Thailand Moves to Reclassify Cannabis and Hemp
BANGKOK – Thailand is taking significant steps to reclassify cannabis and hemp as controlled narcotics following a recent meeting by a key committee focused on illegal drug regulation. This development, reported by Bangkok Post, highlights a shift in the nation’s approach to cannabis use.
Control Measures and Medical Use
During the meeting, all committee members unanimously agreed on the principle that cannabis should be strictly limited to medical treatments. Surachoke Tangwiwat, deputy permanent secretary of the public health ministry, emphasized the importance of this focus.
- The committee’s consensus points towards:
- Restriction of cannabis for recreational purposes.
- Prioritizing its use for medical applications.
- A call for reclassification back onto the narcotics list.
Next Steps in the Process
The committee’s decision will be documented in a report to the Office of the Narcotics Control Board next week. Upon approval, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be responsible for:
- Amending existing cannabis-related legislation.
- Establishing guidelines for the usage of cannabis and hemp.
These new regulations are slated to take effect on January 1, 2025.
Impact on Cannabis Businesses
Since Thailand became the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis in 2022, a surge of cannabis dispensaries and related enterprises has emerged throughout the nation. However, the recent policy shift has created anxiety among these businesses.
In early 2024, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin ordered officials to implement restrictions aimed exclusively at medical usage of marijuana. This directive is part of a broader strategy to regulate the growing cannabis industry.
Public Response and Opposition
The proposed policy U-turn has drawn criticism from cannabis advocacy groups and business owners, prompting them to:
- Organize rallies against the reclassification.
- Consider potential legal action against the prime minister’s decision.
These stakeholders argue that restricting cannabis use could have detrimental effects on both economic growth and health innovation in the country.
As Thailand navigates this complex junction in its cannabis policy, further developments will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents of cannabis regulation. Stay updated on the latest changes in cannabis law by joining ST’s Telegram channel.
