Deputy PM supports regulated cannabis use in Thailand

In a significant public announcement, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul voiced his stance on the ongoing cannabis debate in Thailand, declaring he supports regulated use. This followed an interview with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on France 24, in which the leader suggested the reclassification of marijuana as an illicit substance due to its deemed harmful effects on Thai society.

The 62 year old Thai prime minister argued that the negative impacts outweighed the potential economic benefits.

Anutin, formerly the Minister of Public Health, expressed his agreement with the government’s existing policy which allowed the use of cannabis in medical, economic, and research fields. This policy had been presented to the Thai Parliament in the past, with Anutin stating, “It was as if it had already been explained to all Thai people.”

Despite this, there were members within the Thai government who were advocating for marijuana to be reverted to an illegal status. This would introduce criminal penalties for possession of even small quantities of the substance and would limit its use strictly to medical purposes only.

Anutin noted that this would necessitate modifying the regulations set forth by the Thai Ministry of Public Health and other relevant agencies. These guidelines currently outline the legitimate usage of cannabis. Furthermore, those who had invested in cannabis businesses in good faith, following the existing regulations, would need to be adequately compensated if this change were to take place.

To enact this policy change, Anutin suggested that it would involve the amendment of a series of laws and regulations. However, he favoured continued regulation of cannabis, as opposed to completely recriminalising it.

The 57 year old Thai politician strongly asserted that if used in the right manner, cannabis and hemp could significantly boost the local economy by generating substantial income. He highlighted that many countries with advanced medical technologies also recognise the medicinal benefits of marijuana, rather than viewing it solely as a recreational substance.

Reflecting on the future of cannabis policy in Thailand, Anutin’s comments encapsulated the complex debate surrounding the plant. As the country considers the possible legal and social implications of such a policy change, it is clear that the issue of cannabis remains a contentious topic, rife with differing perspectives and interests.