Thailand is set to impose stricter cannabis regulations following a sharp rise in smuggling cases involving tourists. The government plans to revise cannabis laws within weeks to tighten control over sales and reduce illegal trafficking. Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin confirmed that cannabis shops will soon require prescriptions to sell legally and stressed that exporting cannabis without official permission breaks Thai law.
Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022, becoming the first country in Asia to do so. This decision boosted tourism and farming, leading to the creation of thousands of cannabis shops. However, the move also raised concerns because cannabis became widely accessible, including to minors. Many citizens now criticize the widespread use and claim it increases addiction. The ruling Pheu Thai Party promised to reverse decriminalization and ban cannabis again, but resistance from its pro-cannabis coalition partner delayed the legislation.
Airport officials have increased inspections to catch travelers smuggling cannabis. Most offenders are foreign nationals, especially from India and the United Kingdom. Recently, two young British women were arrested in Georgia and Sri Lanka after leaving Thailand with cannabis. A joint operation between UK and Thai authorities in February seized over two tonnes of cannabis from air passengers. Since July 2022, Thai authorities have arrested more than 50 British citizens for smuggling cannabis. UK officials also noted a rise in parcels containing cannabis sent from Thailand.
In March, Thai immigration and police intercepted 22 suitcases filled with cannabis at Samui Island airport. They seized 375 kilograms of cannabis and arrested 13 foreigners, mostly British, linked to trafficking. The suspects had entered Thailand as tourists and were sent to Samui to await cannabis-filled luggage. From there, they traveled to Singapore and then back to the UK. Traffickers promised each smuggler a reward of £2,000 upon delivery.
Officials have pledged to dismantle similar trafficking networks and reduce cannabis-related crime. They also called for international cooperation to address cross-border smuggling. Thailand’s planned tightening of cannabis laws aims to balance the benefits of legalization with the need to prevent illegal activities.
