Health Minister Denies Free Cannabis Policy, Warns of Immediate Arrests for Sales and Use; Accelerates Drug Regulation
Thailand's Health Minister denied a free cannabis policy while confirming immediate arrests for unlicensed sales and distribution, announcing plans to phase out 12,000 cannabis shops within three years and expedite new drug regulations.
During a Senate meeting on May 11, 2026, chaired by Senate Speaker Mongkol Surasaj, Health Minister Pattana Prompattana addressed concerns raised by Senator Prinyah Vongchoedkwan regarding Thailand's cannabis policy and measures to prevent social harm.
The Health Minister explained that the Ministry of Public Health has issued regulations (version 2 of 2026) permitting research, export, sale, and processing of controlled medicinal herbs for commercial purposes. Currently, approximately 12,000 shops hold licenses, but the ministry is phasing them out: 5,000-6,000 shops in 2026, 4,000-5,000 in 2027, and about 1,000 in 2028. Within 2-3 years, all remaining operations must transition to medical facilities staffed with six licensed healthcare professionals at all times.
Regarding the pending cannabis and kratom bill, which is in public comment period until May 21, 2026, the Health Minister pledged to expedite its passage and implementation to control unregistered cultivation farms. He noted that only sales require licensing; personal use is not penalized.
The Health Minister emphasized that cannabis development as an extract promotes Thailand's economy through cosmetics and supplements, but only uses extract in regulated proportions set by the FDA, never whole flower buds.
When pressed by Senator Prinyah about enforcement against unlicensed cannabis and entertainment venues selling it, the Health Minister confirmed immediate arrests are possible for sales and distribution, though personal cultivation carries no penalty. He stressed that selling or providing cannabis to others requires proper certification and cannot be done.
