Thailand Tightens Cannabis Rules Amid Smuggling Surge

Thailand is tightening cannabis regulations, requiring medical prescriptions and limiting sales to 30 days of use amid rising smuggling incidents. The changes, effective in 40 days, respond to tourists trying to export cannabis illegally, prompting ongoing discussions on broader cannabis legislation.

In response to a notable rise in cannabis smuggling, Thailand is tightening regulations around cannabis sales and access. Authorities will now require medical prescriptions for cannabis purchases, aiming to reduce illicit activities, especially among tourists. This regulation is set to come into effect in roughly 40 days, according to the Ministry of Public Health, which also stipulates that purchased cannabis cannot exceed a 30-day supply.

Recent interception incidents, including 73 kilograms of cannabis confiscated at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport, have shed light on the issue. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin revealed that smuggled cannabis has reached various international destinations, including the United Kingdom and India. As a result, access to cannabis will be significantly limited to medical users only.

Thailand, which decriminalized cannabis in Asia in 2022, has struggled with regulation since. The absence of a clear law has led to over 10,700 cannabis dispensaries opening across the country, primarily in tourist hotspots and urban areas such as Bangkok. As the recreational smoking trend raises societal concerns about addiction, there have been multiple policy shifts to rein in cannabis use.

The ruling Pheu Thai Party originally intended to relist cannabis as a narcotic to curb its usage but faced opposition from the Bhumjaithai Party, a key coalition member. This political tug-of-war has hindered progress on stricter laws while keeping cannabis legal.

Despite cannabis being available in Thailand, smuggling remains a pressing issue, with tourists trying to export the substance in luggage or by mail. Since a joint effort between British and Thai authorities last year, over 50 British nationals have faced arrest for attempts to smuggle cannabis. To date, more than 800 cases have been intercepted, yielding over 9 tons of cannabis confiscated.

In view of the current situation, these new rules may only be a temporary fix. Thailand’s efforts toward a comprehensive cannabis bill to cover its use, sale, and production are still ongoing. Although a draft bill was presented in September, it has yet to make its way through cabinet approval or parliamentary discussion.

Somsak addressed the timeline for the cannabis bill, indicating it would progress independently but not hastily, projecting a two-year window before completion. He also highlighted that if public sentiment continues to falter, re-criminalization could be on the table.

The public, along with industry stakeholders, is encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed regulations by June 5, prior to a submission for cabinet approval.

Thailand is implementing stricter cannabis regulations to combat a rising trend of smuggling, particularly among tourists. The new rules will require prescriptions for cannabis purchases and limit the supply to a 30-day use. While the country grapples with the balance of legality and regulation since its 2022 decriminalization, the government is working toward a comprehensive cannabis bill. The outcome of this legislation and public feedback could shape the future of cannabis use in the country.

Original Source: www.livemint.com