Thailand Cannabis Laws: Tourist Advisory 2024
Thailand’s cannabis laws have changed.Tourists now need a Thai prescription to legally possess or use cannabis flower, as its become a controlled substance effective June 23, 2025. Authorities are actively enforcing strict regulations to curb misuse and illegal sales. The Tourism Authority of Thailand urges visitors to understand these new rules to avoid potential fines or imprisonment.Learn about the Ministry of Public health’s latest directives, which replaced a previous 2022 framework. Unlicensed vendors and online sales face crackdown as specific applications are only intended for the medical field. Remember, sales are prohibited in public spaces. News Directory 3 keeps you informed. Stay updated on all the changes before your trip.Discover what’s next …
Thailand Tightens Rules on Cannabis Flower for Tourists
Updated June 28, 2025
Thailand has reclassified cannabis flower as a controlled substance, effective June 23, 2025. This means tourists must have a valid Thai prescription to legally use or purchase it. Authorities are enforcing strict regulations to combat misuse and unlicensed sales of cannabis products.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is advising visitors that these measures are in place to ensure public safety and maintain order. Penalties for violations can include fines and even imprisonment. Tourists are urged to familiarize themselves with local cannabis laws and only obtain cannabis products through authorized channels.
Educational campaigns are underway to inform both locals and visitors about the legal implications and health aspects related to cannabis use. The new regulation, issued by the Ministry of Public Health under the Thai Customary Medicine Wisdom Protection and Promotion Act B.E. 2552 (2009), replaces a previous directive from November 2022.
While cannabis was initially removed from the narcotics list in 2022, the intent was solely for medical, research, and health-related applications. The 2025 regulation reinforces stricter rules nationwide regarding the use, sale, and posession of cannabis flower, specifically targeting potential misuse of cannabis.
tourists are now prohibited from using cannabis flower unless it’s prescribed by a licensed Thai medical professional,with a supply limit of 30 days for medical necessity. Unlicensed cannabis shops, especially those targeting tourists, may be operating illegally. Authorities are actively monitoring sales and cracking down on violations related to cannabis.
the sale of cannabis products is now prohibited online, through vending machines, or via advertisements. Sales are also banned in public spaces such as temples, parks, and amusement venues. The TAT is urging visitors to only engage with cannabis through verified, licensed providers, emphasizing that previously tolerated practices were never legally sanctioned.
What’s next
Visitors to Thailand should stay informed and adhere to these regulations to ensure a respectful and safe visit. For further data, individuals can contact the Food and Drug Administration at the Ministry of Public Health via their hotline at 1556.