Thailand has abruptly reversed its 2022 cannabis reform, once celebrated across Southeast Asia—reinstating strict controls and prescription-only access to curb unregulated use and youth exposure.
Backtracking after bold reform
Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022 and opened recreational access with more than 18,000 stores opening across the country. Now, a June 2025 order reclassifies cannabis buds as narcotics once again, limiting sales exclusively to medical dispensaries and requiring prescriptions from licensed doctors .
Politics-driven shift
The policy U-turn follows the Pheu Thai Party’s move toward tighter drug laws after the Bhumjaithai Party left the governing coalition in mid-June, freeing the government to act on its pledge to restrict cannabis to medical use .
Tourists at Risk
Travelers seeking marijuana-friendly holidays were attracted by the cannabis boom. Some regions could face backlash if tourists are denied access to shops, festivals, or other attractions in Bangkok, Phuket and Pai. Australia’s travel advisory already cautions visitors following the new restrictions .
Impact on the economy and industries
Thailand’s cannabis sector—once projected to reach as much as $1.8 billion—now braces for a downturn. The small farmers and dispensaries fear that the strict prescriptions and licensing requirements will drive many of them out of business. ().
Youth protection and public health
Thai authorities attribute the increase in youth consumption to addiction, tourism-related trafficking, and rising rates of usage. Infringers of the new regulations could face up to one year imprisonment, and fines of up to 20,000 Baht. Supporters argue the reform is essential for public health balance .
Protests and a backlash from activists are coming
The “Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network” and other advocacy groups have vowed to protest on July 7, calling the move a political power play that will harm the sector’s legitimacy .