The Thai Ministry of Public Health plans to require medical certificates for all cannabis users to curb illegal cannabis exports. This announcement came after reports of cannabis smuggling through major airports like Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok.
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin said authorities found that cannabis was being sent illegally to countries including the UK, India, Pakistan, and Hong Kong. Large seizures have been made at airports, with one case at Suvarnabhumi involving 73 kilograms of cannabis.
The law allows cannabis export only with official permission. Unauthorized exports carry penalties including imprisonment and fines. Despite some public misunderstanding, authorities have consistently enforced these rules and plan to tighten controls on cannabis use within Thailand.
The ministry intends to issue a ministerial announcement within 40 days requiring both Thai and foreign cannabis users to obtain a medical certificate to access cannabis legally. This aims to limit access to cannabis without proper medical approval.
Cannabis was recently removed from Thailand’s narcotics list and classified as a controlled herb. This change is expected to allow faster and more effective regulation compared to previous drug laws, which took longer to amend.
The Department of Thai Traditional Medicine is collecting public feedback on cannabis controls. Opinions are divided between those who want stricter rules and those who support recreational use.
Airports of Thailand have cooperated closely with law enforcement. Hundreds of kilograms of cannabis have been seized during crackdowns. New technology such as K9 units is being considered to improve detection because existing X-ray machines have limitations.
Future cannabis sales will require medical certification for conditions such as epilepsy, headaches, pain, and insomnia. Usage limits may also be introduced, and legal action will be taken against misuse beyond prescribed amounts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working with international partners to stop cannabis smuggling by foreigners. The government is promoting awareness of legal penalties and warning against scams claiming cannabis exports are legal.
Thailand is strengthening cannabis regulations to prevent illegal export and misuse. Requiring medical certificates and enhancing airport enforcement will help control cannabis use and protect public health.
