Thailand’s cannabis crackdown: High hopes hang in the balance

Thailand’s cannabis industry faces an uncertain future as Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin spearheads a controversial meeting to reconsider the legal status of cannabis.

The high-stakes discussion, involving Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin, and Minister of Justice Police Colonel Thavee Sodsong, aims to reclassify cannabis as a Category 5 narcotic.

This move would restrict its use strictly to medical and health purposes, with an emphasis on improving addiction treatment. The implications for businesses, especially in bustling hubs like Pattaya, could be significant.

Wara, a licensed cannabis shop owner in Pattaya, voiced his concerns over the proposed reclassification.

“Most of my customers are tourists buying cannabis for recreational use. This change could drastically impact our business.”

Despite his worries, Wara urged calm among fellow business owners. He acknowledged the discussions are ongoing but highlighted the potential for stricter regulations, such as the need for specialised pharmacists and medical prescriptions for buyers.

“We need to stay optimistic and hope for a balanced solution that considers the economic benefits of our industry.”

Wara also stressed the importance of complying with government regulations to safeguard the industry’s future, reported Pattaya Mail.

He highlighted the necessity of responsible sales practices, particularly avoiding sales to minors, students, and pregnant women.

In related news, Gunkul Engineering, a Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET)-listed renewable energy firm, is halting its investment in the cannabis industry, awaiting clearer government regulations.

The company, which ventured into cannabis and hemp through its subsidiary GK Hemp Group, has already spent nearly 500 million baht (US$14 million) on developing its cannabis project but is now pausing further expenditure.

In other news, pro-cannabis groups are ramping up their efforts to resist the Thai government’s intent to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic drug, threatening to stage a protest outside the Ministry of Public Health. The demonstration will continue until the ministry can provide concrete scientific evidence backing its proposition.