“Cannabis Handbook” helps foreigners use cannabis in accordance with the rules

        After unlocking cannabis as a legal plant on 9 June 2022, Thailand became the first Asian country to declare that it a non-narcotic drug. The government has considered issuing a notification from the Ministry of Public Health regarding Controlled Herbs (Cannabis) B.E. 2565, to declare that cannabis or cannabis extract, a plant in the genus Cannabis, is a controlled herb, allowing people 20 and older to possess, use, care, store, transport, and sell cannabis, but with various restrictions.

        The “unlocking” of cannabis has increased tourist interest in cannabis-containing products. The Ministry of Public Health supports medical, health, and economic use of cannabis, but not recreational use. The Ministry of Public Health has announced several cannabis control measures, including classifying cannabis inflorescences as a controlled herb, while awaiting the Marijuana Cannabis Act. Production, processing, and distribution require permission.

        Cannabis flos (or flowers) are prohibited in food, because they contain both THC and CBD, and cannabis-containing foods must be labeled.

        The Ministry of Public Health’s “10 Things Tourists Need to Know about Cannabis in Thailand” guide provides accurate information for foreign tourists.

1. Carrying seeds or parts of the cannabis plant from and to Thailand for personal purposes is not permitted. 

2. Cannabis cultivation is legal but registering in the Food And Drug Administration's "Plook Ganja" application or through a government website is required.

3. Using cannabis flower buds for research, export, sale, and processing for commercial purposes requires an official permit. 

4. Individuals under 20 years old, pregnant women and breastfeeding women are not eligible to use cannabis except under the supervision of health professionals. 

5. Possession of extract containing more than 0.2% THC and synthetic THC requires permission. 

6. Cannabis-containing dishes are available in authorized restaurants. 

7. Approved cannabis health products are accessible through specific channels. 

8. Smoking cannabis in public spaces, including schools and shopping malls, is illegal. 

9. Avoid driving after consuming food or health products containing cannabis. 

10. Those who have serious undesirable health outcomes from consuming cannabis should promptly see doctors for treatment.