Thailand imposes prescription requirement for cannabis sales amid public health fears

In Thailand, recent regulatory changes have imposed stricter controls on cannabis sales, transitioning the country from a previously decriminalized stance to a more restrictive approach. As of late June 2025, sales of cannabis are now limited to individuals possessing a doctor's prescription, effectively redefining the use of cannabis for medical purposes only. This shift follows three years after Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis in 2022, which had initially generated significant benefits for tourism and agriculture, leading to the establishment of thousands of cannabis shops. However, the rise of the recreational cannabis market resulted in public backlash over concerns regarding easy access, particularly for children, and an increase in cannabis-related addiction cases. Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has emphasized that the intent behind this regulation is to prioritize public safety and prevent misuse, citing alarming statistics on a spike in addiction rates post-decriminalization. The government is taking a proactive stance by reclassifying cannabis buds as a controlled herb and potentially looking to relist cannabis as a narcotic in the future. As the political landscape in Thailand remains tumultuous, with changing coalitions and public sentiments, the government faces pressure to find a balance between economic benefits and public health safety. Cannabis advocates have expressed concerns that these regulations are politically motivated and may diminish the progress made in the cannabis industry. The long-term implications of these regulations could reshape the cannabis market in Thailand, driving innovation in medical use while curtailing recreational consumption.