The conservative coalition government of Thailand is reversing the country’s permissive attitude toward cannabis. This decision has cast a shadow of uncertainty over both residents and visitors. The U-turn comes less than two years after it became the first country in Asia to legalize the drug. The dramatic shift signals a return to more stringent drug policies, mainly targeting recreational use.
In the neon-lit streets of Bangkok’s tourist hotspots, it’s easy to find cannabis cafes and shops just about wherever one looks. The legalization in June 2022 marked a significant shift for a country once known for its harsh drug laws. Before then, possession of marijuana was punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Now, according to Euronews, with the industry’s meteoric rise, more than 6,000 dispensaries opened their doors, and a slew of cannabis-infused foods hit the market, boosting both the economy and tourism.
The Reasons Behind Thailand’s Reversal
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the Pheu Thai Party-led government are now advocating for a crackdown on what they consider poorly regulated and potentially harmful aspects of cannabis consumption. The government, citing health dangers and the possibility of substance abuse among children, is attempting to limit marijuana usage to medicinal causes, with the Prime Minister publicly pressing the Ministry of Public Health to hasten rules.
The proposed pivot away from recreational cannabis has not gone without its detractors. Business owners within the cannabis industry, who have invested heavily following the legalization, stand to face severe economic repercussions. Furthermore, the move has sparked controversy among members of the ruling government and the public, with pro-cannabis groups threatening protests.
What Does This Mean for Tourists?
For tourists, the current state of cannabis use in Thailand is fraught with ambiguity. While the sale and consumption of weed are still technically legal, new regulations and the looming threat of reclassification as a narcotic have cast a shadow over the once-thriving weed tourism sector. Public use of cannabis, especially smoking or vaping in public places, is already subject to restrictions. Using can lead to fines for causing a ‘public nuisance.’ The implications of this policy shift extend beyond the borders of Thailand. Tourists are cautioned that transporting cannabis across international lines remains illegal, with neighboring countries like Singapore maintaining stringent drug policies.
