After cannabis was delisted from the Narcotics Code in 2021, the uncontrolled and widespread use of the substance triggered public outcry, urging swift government intervention to regulate the situation.
Despite three years passing since the revision, Thailand’s cannabis regulations remain in a state of ambiguity and uncertainty.
While two proposed bills have been presented to parliament to address this pressing issue, there’s no indication of imminent approval of either bill by the legislative body.
Efforts to streamline cannabis regulations under the current administration must target outdated legal loopholes and reinforce oversight mechanisms to prevent potential misuse.
Despite the government’s claims of having regulatory frameworks in place, significant gaps persist in key areas such as cultivation, processing, and retail, fostering a belief among the populace that cannabis cultivation and consumption are permissible without restrictions.
In the cultivation sphere, clarity is lacking in both commercial and household settings. Commercial growers lack explicit guidance on compliant cultivation practices. While the 2021 ministerial regulations specify permits for cannabis production, the rules regarding home cultivation via the “Pluk Gan” application remain vague, omitting details on plant quantity and cultivation locations, which may lead to public discord.
Concerns also arise in the processing sector, particularly concerning the oversight of cannabis used in edible products like cookies and brownies. Insufficient post-approval monitoring puts consumers at risk, as producers may unintentionally exceed legal limits post-approval, raising quality and safety concerns.
Moreover, the retail segment lacks robust safety controls. Cannabis flower sales are classified as controlled medicinal herbs, preventing sales to minors. However, inconsistent regulations on cannabis extracts, such as permitting cannabis flowers with potentially hazardous THC levels, pose health hazards.
The enforcement of cannabis laws encounters challenges due to disjointed responsibilities among various state bodies. Inconsistencies arise, such as the Food and Drug Administration overseeing illicit cannabis detection while the Office of Narcotics Control Board manages extracts exceeding THC limits.
For a comprehensive solution, regulatory reforms must be enacted to ensure secure cannabis utilization. Commercial cultivation for medical purposes should mandate stringent eligibility criteria, ensuring adherence to safety regulations and zoning laws to prevent community disruptions.
Retail establishments should obtain specific permits for medical sales, with constraints comparable to those on alcoholic beverages. Zoning regulations ought to stipulate safe distances from susceptible populations like children.
Personal cannabis possession should mandate medical prescriptions, curtailing household cultivation and consumption in prepared foods. Non-edible products must feature adequate labeling to inform consumers of cannabis content.
Enhanced collaboration among regulatory bodies is paramount to ensure effective implementation. Local stakeholders should engage in licensing procedures for cultivation and retail, addressing community concerns. Stricter enforcement against excessive THC levels is necessary to uphold legal standards.
