Thailand Tightens Cannabis Sales Regulations Requiring Doctor Approval

Thailand's cannabis industry is facing significant changes as the government moves to tighten regulations on cannabis sales. The new rules, signed by Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, require an on-site doctor to approve sales for medical purposes. This shift comes three years after Thailand decriminalized cannabis, aiming to allow sales for medical rather than recreational use. However, the relaxation led to the establishment of hundreds of cannabis dispensaries, particularly in Bangkok, raising concerns about under-regulation.

The new regulation mandates that cannabis can only be sold to customers for medical reasons, under the supervision of licensed professionals such as medical doctors, traditional Thai medicine doctors, folk healers, or dentists. This means customers will no longer be able to choose their preferred cannabis products; instead, a doctor will decide the appropriate strain and quantity based on the customer's symptoms. This change has sparked concern among cannabis store owners and activists, who argue that the industry has become well-established and that the new rules could disrupt their businesses.

Thanatat Chotiwong, a long-time cannabis activist and store owner, expressed frustration with the sudden change in regulations. He highlighted the significant investments made by entrepreneurs in greenhouses and infrastructure, warning that the new rules could shut down the industry. Chotiwong urged the government to implement proper taxation and regulation instead, allowing the revenue to be returned to society in a meaningful way. The government has made previous announcements about restricting cannabis, but none have come to fruition until now.

The new rules have also raised concerns about the availability of doctors to supervise sales. Kajkanit Sakdisubha, owner of The Dispensary cannabis shop in Bangkok, warned that many shops may not be able to adapt to the changes due to the limited number of available doctors. As a precaution, The Dispensary has halted cannabis sales while waiting for the rules to come into force. The uncertainty has left customers unsure about the legality of their purchases, with many calling the store for clarification.

The move to tighten cannabis regulations comes at a time of political instability in Thailand. The government, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s Pheu Thai party, is facing challenges after losing its main coalition partner, Bhumjaithai. Despite being conservative, Bhumjaithai has long supported more liberal laws on cannabis. The party quit the coalition this month following a dispute over a leaked phone call between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. The political turmoil adds another layer of uncertainty to the future of Thailand's cannabis industry, as stakeholders await further clarification on the new rules and their potential impact on the market.