How has Thailand's cannabis policy changed in recent years?

Thailand has shifted from traditional to modern applications with a rise in medical cannabis usage and a controlled approach aligning with health policy objectives. So the government plans to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic by 2024, focusing on regulated therapeutic applications.

What are Thailand's cannabis cultivation guidelines?

When it comes to hemp and cannabis farming Thailand is quite strict with their guideline as it should be. As only a few provinces have the permit to grow and cultivate cannabis. This ensures job safety for locals and maintains the quality of the flower.

How is the Thai government attracting international investors in the cannabis sector?

The Thai government has taken a slow but clear approach when it comes to collaborating with international investors. Making sure of the job security of the locals and simplifying export regulation to further motivate more investors.

Cannabis trends in Thailand 2024: what you need to know

mahatee niramitrsathitPublished: 17:11, 22 August 2024| Updated: 17:57, 04 September 2024

2,061 5 minutes read

Cannabis trends in Thailand 2024: what you need to know

Cannabis trends in Thailand are changing. Since the legalization of recreational cannabis use, the cannabis scene in Thailand has been evolving into a more modern usage, with better policies and increased job opportunities for cannasseur.

This evolution has opened the cannabis industry into different niches and trends, further solidifying the fact that the Green Revolution is happening in Thailand as we speak.

Here are major and minor changes happening in the cannabis space right now.

Key takeaways

Medicinal Benefits and Regulatory Changes – Thailand is rapidly embracing the medicinal uses of cannabis, even as it tightens regulations on recreational use, planning a ban by the end of 2024.
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Economic and Tourism Impact – The cannabis industry is substantially enhancing Thailand’s rural economy and drawing international tourists, thereby establishing cannabis tourism as an emerging trend.
Quality, Safety, and Consumption Diversity – Stringent guidelines ensure medical-grade quality and safety, with an increasing variety of consumption methods like edibles and beverages gaining popularity.
International Market Expansion – Thailand is establishing itself as a significant contender in the global cannabis sector by streamlining export regulations and forging international partnerships, thus addressing the increasing global demand for premium cannabis products.

Cannabis trend #1 Increase in consumption methods

Legalisation has paved the way for new unique ways of consuming cannabis.

Picture of edible cannabis gummies in a palm Image via Unsplash by Elsa Olofsson

Drinking and eating cannabis products have gained popularity, specifically among the middle-aged group (40–49 years). This group’s consumption rate rose from 2.1% in 2019 to 3.8% in 2021.

Edibles and beverages provide a smokeless option, appealing to health-conscious users. You might find companies launching various cannabis-infused products to cater to this trend. Cannabis consumption in Thailand has evolved above smoking to include edibles.

Such important data underscores the importance of responsible consumption education. Embracing these various methods, Thailand’s cannabis view shows adaptation to user preferences and evolving trends. You can anticipate further innovations as the market matures.

Cannabis trend #2 Emphasis on quality and safety

The boom of legal cannabis use in Thailand has caught the attention of Thailand Health Officials to promote proper usage and dosage.

Image of a safety sign surrounding by cannabis leafs. Image via Unsplash

Marijuana consumption from 2.20% in 2019 to 4.20% in 2021, proves the need for the establishment of safety guidelines.

The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees the control of quality, focusing on the cleanliness of the product. Moreover, public education campaigns emphasise responsible use and potential risks. You’re likely to see clear labelling of THC and CBD content on cannabis products, which aids in consumer awareness.

Cannabis trend #3 Boosting tourism and job

Graph of Thailand Cannabis Market by Thaiger

As of now total market value of cannabis has been estimated to reach 42,851 million baht by the year 2025. Thailand is now well known for being the only Asian country to be weed-friendly. This has made most tourists goal to visit Thailand as their next destination, either to try the famous Pineapple Express strain or join a cannabis event.

Despite covid efforts to bring down Thailand tourism the legalisation of cannabis have helped Thailand bounce back up. As the cannabis economy grows more jobs have emerged into the scene jobs like blunt roller and cannasseur. Enthustetics hemp farmers have more opportunity as they can merge their business to grow flowers as well. It is also important to be aware of where Growing cannabis is legal as most provinces have different sets of regulations.

Map of Provinces where cannabis is legal — Map of where cannabis cultivation is legal

Cannabis trend #4 Expansion into international market

As of now Thailand Cannabis industry has a total market value of 36 billion baht and seems to be increasing each month, however all good things always come to an end. After the announcement of the criminalization of cannabis, it has ruffled entrepreneurs and investors feathers. Not much info has been given on the upcoming ban but most people are hoping it’s more of a restriction and tighter regulation.

cannabis strain from Ten Co based in Cali Image via The Ten Co

Despite the drama, It have not stopped Thai locals and entrepreneurs investing in the cannabis industry. Even taking a step further, investing in wholesale California weed. Cali weed is very well known for their quality and their potency making it rare to find them in Thailand.

Although hard it’s not impossible to get your hands on cali weed here in bangkok. You might want to test your luck at a well known dispensary like High Society, 4twenty and so on.

Cannabis trend #5 Expansion in CBD

It is well known that THC is the main psychoactive chemical contained in cannabis to make users in a state of euphoria and a different perception of time, color, and space.

Marijuana leaf — Photo by Diyahna Lewis on Unsplash

Most cannabis users have not noticed THC cousin CBD. When CBD is used properly it can help users with pain, stress and even insomnia. Studies have even shown that CBD can potentially have neuroprotective properties. However it is important to be aware of the dosage as excessive amounts can lead to cotton mouth ,fatigue ,drowsiness and even diarrhea.

Picture of cbd oil in a cup of coffee — Image via Unsplash

Cannabis trend #6 CBD and THC in athletic space

As the world of cannabis evolves, more and more chemicals are found in cannabis. One of the most taken advantageous chemicals found in cannabis are CBD also known as Cannabidiol. Although not a psychoactive chemical like its cousin THC. CBD can be used in many different areas like pain relief and such. By 2018 World Anti Doping Agency have removed CBD as it has therapeutic benefits. Modern day athletes have been integrating CBD into their routine and training.

Picture of a women running with cannabis related graphic Image via The Sports Pharmacist

While CBD is gaining acceptance , it’s quite a debate in the sports industry of whether THC should be allowed or not. Since THC is a psychoactive chemical some athletes could abuse it to their advantage enhancing creativity and even focus. A survey done by a French student in 2010 reveals that the higher-level competitors were more likely to use cannabis to enhance performance.

Cannabis trend #7 Challenges and Opportunities

Analysts are pumped about Thailand’s cannabis market, forecasting revenue to hit USD 1.10 billion by 2030 with a 5.5% annual growth rate. Legalizing recreational use and new market players are game-changers. Big names, both local and international, are investing in innovative and sustainable practices. Shifting consumer tastes and cultural changes are driving major growth.

Cannabis in Thailand — Image via Unsplash by Matteo Paganelli

Focusing strictly on medical cannabis will be a mixed bag. Banning recreational use and slapping fines and prison sentences might limit market diversity but could also lead to top-quality medical products. The economic upside is huge, especially in rural areas. Balancing economic benefits with public health is key. Enhanced healthcare access could make medical cannabis a big deal for pain relief, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Tons of investment opportunities are on the table, but navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial.

Other cannabis trends and innovations

Cannabis Guides

mahatee niramitrsathit

มหาธีร์ นิรมิตสถิต ลูกครึ่งไทย เมียนมาร์ ผู้เชี่ยวชาญด้านกัญชา ทั้งการปลูกและศึกษาวิจัยกัญชาเพื่อการแพทย์ ภูมิปัญญาชาวบ้าน พร้อมให้ความรู้เกี่ยวกับกัญชา กัญชงที่ถูกกฎหมายและปลอดภัย Mahatee is half-Thai / half-Burmese, he's considered a 'cannabis expert' (before and after legalisation!). He's experienced in both growing and researching Cannabis for medical use and has blogged/written about it for the past 7 years.