The Ministry of Public Health is advancing its efforts to establish a new ministerial regulation on cannabis before the incoming government takes office. The draft regulation is currently under review by the Office of the Council of State.
This proposed regulation would represent a significant change in Thailand’s cannabis policies by restricting sales to specific locations such as hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, herbal stores, and licensed traditional healer establishments. Retailers would need to obtain licenses from the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, which would also oversee mandatory training for sellers.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat stated that the ministry has submitted the draft for legal review but did not specify whether it would be approved in time. He added, “I will sign the regulation as soon as it reaches me, and it will take effect immediately.”
Regarding the future political landscape, the minister expressed uncertainty about any potential policy changes but indicated that if the current course remains, the bill could proceed. He also mentioned that even if there are delays, the draft wouldn’t need to go back to the cabinet; a new minister could either continue with it or discard it, depending on policy priorities.
The Department of Public Health reports that Thailand presently has 18,433 licensed cannabis shops. Of these, 8,636 licenses expired last year, and only 1,339 outlets have renewed their permits.