Jean MartinThailand’s Health Minister announces plans to outlaw the recreational use of marijuana by the end of the year while ensuring continued availability for medicinal purposes, marking a shift from the country’s earlier decriminalization efforts.
Thailand’s Trailblazing Cannabis Decriminalization Efforts:
Thailand made history in Southeast Asia by decriminalizing cannabis for medicinal and research purposes in 2018, followed by broader legalization for cultivation and consumption in 2022, sparking the growth of a burgeoning cannabis industry projected to reach $1.2 billion by next year.
Criticism of Hastily Implemented Regulations:
Critics highlight concerns over the swift implementation of cannabis regulations, suggesting that hastily adopted rules lacked comprehensive oversight, potentially leading to misuse and negative consequences.
Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew underscores the necessity of regulatory frameworks to prevent the misuse of cannabis, particularly emphasizing the potential adverse effects on Thai youth.
Balancing Access with Regulation:
Acknowledging the benefits of medical marijuana, Thailand seeks to strike a harmony between maintaining access to cannabis for therapeutic purposes while implementing measures to curb recreational use and safeguard public health.
