Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin confirmed on Wednesday that a recent survey of approximately 100,000 individuals revealed strong support for the reintroduction of cannabis criminalization. Acting on the survey results, Mr. Somsak announced that he would proceed with the legal changes, pending final approval from the Narcotics Control Board. Despite the government’s stance on medical, health, and economic uses of cannabis, recreational use is set to be restricted under the proposed regulations.
In response, Prasitchai Nunual, the secretary-general of the pro-cannabis group Writing Thai Cannabis’ Future, expressed opposition to the policy and planned to voice concerns at the Public Health Ministry.
Notably, the Bhumjaithai Party, now a part of the coalition government, championed the decriminalization of cannabis in June 2022. However, this move led to a proliferation of cannabis stores and raised concerns from medical experts about its impact, particularly on the youth. The Medical Council issued warnings about the potential long-term effects on brain development in children.
Recent data presented by Mr. Somsak indicated a significant increase in cannabis use among young adults since the decriminalization two years ago. Anutin Charnvirakul, who was the health minister during the decriminalization, now holds positions as the interior minister, deputy prime minister, and chairs the Narcotics Control Board.
